5 Nature-Focused Events Your Kids Will Love

Parents and caretakers know a world of possibilities opens up when summer weather is here to stay in the Buckeye State. With children wrapping up school years and even littler ones craving variety at home, filling the balmy days can be stretching; this handful of events dotting Ohio promise educational experiences and a welcome change of scenery. Bring the kids to an event explaining how milk products are made, or take them to a biweekly, outdoor-centered storytime.


Toddler Storytime in the Nature PlayScape | June 3
No registration is necessary for this lively weekly event at the Cincinnati Nature Center’s Nature PlayScape in Rowe Woods. Every Wednesday, join a story expert who leads movements, cues songs and reads from nature-themed books. Little listeners enjoy a new tale each time. cincynature.org

Audubon Preschool Adventures | June 9
Adventure awaits preschool-age kiddos every other Tuesday at Columbus’ Grange Insurance Audubon Center. Check in at the front desk at 10 a.m. for a nature-themed story and snack, as well as time for songs, rhymes and a take-home craft. If the weather permits, staff will take little explorers on a mini excursion for playtime in nature. audubon.org/grange


Kinderealm: Clever Crows | June 10
Caretakers and little ones ages three to six can convene at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm to learn all about one of our most intelligent birds. Spend an hour in the Akron destination’s nature center gaining insights into crows’ problem-solving skills, ability to plan tasks and tool use. Adults should be sure to make arrangements for younger kids not able to remain in seats or strollers. summitmetroparks.org

Nature Play | June 18
Children of all ages are welcome to join an Ohio Department of Natural Resources naturalist for this recurring fun-in-the-sun event. The educational program at Scioto Trail State Park in Chillicothe takes kiddos creeking, crafting and encountering critters. Participants can meet at the Old Log Church dressed for the weather (water shoes are a must!) ohiodnr.gov


Dairy Days | June 20-21
June is National Dairy Month, and what better way to celebrate than eight hours exploring how milk and cheese are made? Visit Kirtland’s Lake Metroparks Farmpark to learn how to milk a goat or cow and gain more insight about how milk becomes butter, cheese and ice cream. Families are free to take samples home; little ones will also love the dairy-related crafts and activities on deck. lakemetroparks.com

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