Little explorers and their caregivers are invited to enjoy nature-based play, seasonal STEAM activities, crafts, storytime, and outdoor exploration. This program will take place outdoors, weather permitting, until colder temperatures require us to move indoors for nature-themed activities and animal ambassador encounters. Please come dressed for the weather!

• Ages 1.5-5, with a caregiver
• Session dates:
  • Fall: September 8 – December 15| Tuesdays 9:30-10:30am

Contact: [email protected]

Experience the beauty of autumn in the newly renovated José Carreiro Children’s Garden! Help harvest the season's last vegetables, collect seeds, prepare garden beds for winter, create fall-inspired crafts, and enjoy storytime surrounded by nature. Through hands-on activities, children will discover how gardens rest and prepare for another season of growth. Perfect for curious kids and their grown-ups to explore together!

• Ages 2-5, with a caregiver
• Session dates:
  • Fall: September 11 – October 30 |  Fridays 9:30-10:15am

Contact: [email protected]

Each week, we’ll dive into a fun and creative art project inspired by nature. From painting and collage to sculpture and printmaking, little artists will explore new materials and techniques in a playful, welcoming environment. Perfect for curious kids and their caregivers who love to make and play. This program will be held outdoors, weather permitting, and will move indoors later in the season as colder weather arrives.

• Ages 2-5, with a caregiver
• Session dates:
  • Fall: September 14 to December 21 | Mondays 9:30-10:15am

Contact: [email protected]

Come explore the newly renovated EcoZone and stay for storytime with an Environmental Educator! The EcoZone features live turtles, a greenhouse, as well as seasonal exhibits and activities. Turtle Tales Storytime is from 9:30-10:30am, allowing for exploration at your own pace. An Environmental Educator will lead storytime indoors, or weather permitting, outside in our amphitheater!

PRIVATE homeschool group. Please contact the Nature Center Director at [email protected] prior to registering.

Note: If your child has a medical condition, allergy, or may require medication while at the program, additional paperwork will be required to complete enrollment.

Kids Nature Night Out!

Give yourself a night off while your kids enjoy an evening of fun and exploration! Kids Nature Night Out offers a safe, engaging environment led by experienced South Shore YMCA Nature Center staff. The evening begins with games, science exploration, crafts, and pizza, followed by animal encounters and a nature-themed movie to wind down the night. Activities will begin outdoors (weather permitting) and then move indoors.

• Grades K - 5 (Ages 5 - 12 years)

• SSYMCA Members: $30/child | Nonmembers: $45/child

• Pre-registration required, no drop-ins

If your child has a special condition or may require medication while at the program, additional paperwork must be completed in order for them to participate.

Questions? [email protected]