Calling all forest friends!

Little explorers and their caregivers are invited to engage in nature-based play, seasonal STEAM activities and crafts, and to meet other families who share a passion for nature! Enjoy storytime, meeting our animal ambassadors, creating nature-themed crafts, and discovering the wonders of the natural world. 

• Ages 1.5 – 5 years, with a caregiver
• Tuesdays, 9:30 – 10:30am

Contact: [email protected]

Join us for a joyful dance, movement, and music class inspired by nature. Through playful songs and simple instruments, children will explore rhythm while building motor skills, coordination, and confidence. Please wear comfortable clothing for movement.

• Ages 2 – 5 years, with a caregiver
• Session Dates and Rates:
  • Mondays, 9:15 – 10:00am, April 6 – June 8 (*no program April 20 or May 25)
  • Location: Vine Hall, South Shore YMCA Nature Center

Contact: [email protected]

Each week, we’ll dive into a fun and creative art project inspired by the natural world. 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 take place indoors.

Contact: [email protected]

Discover the sweet story of maple syrup—from tree to table! Learn how sugar maples are tapped, why they’re perfect for syrup, and explore various sugaring tools. Visit tapped trees, watch sap boil into syrup, and enjoy a delicious taste test. Please dress for the weather—this program runs rain, snow, or shine, with activities both indoors and outdoors!

Children must be accompanied by an adult. 

Please purchase a ticket for each person attending. Age 2 and under is free. Please note our trails are not stroller friendly.

Questions: [email protected]

Note: This event is separate from our annual Maple Day, which will be held on Saturday, March 21 this year.

Discover the magic of maple sugaring! Join us for a family-friendly celebration of New England’s maple sugaring traditions. Learn how sugar maples are tapped with hands-on demonstrations, watch as sap is boiled into syrup, and enjoy delicious treats. Plus, enjoy a variety of other activities for all ages! Be sure to dress for the weather—this celebration includes both indoor and outdoor fun.

Family Admission covers up to five individuals. Additional participants will need individual tickets. Children age 2 and under are free—no ticket required.

Learn more: https://ssymcanaturecenter.org/events/mapleday/

Questions: [email protected]

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.

• Grades K – 5 (Ages 5 – 12 years)

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

• Pre-registration required, no drop-ins

Questions? [email protected]