Wee Naturalists

Explore the wonders of nature with your preschooler through PVAS’s Wee Naturalist Program! Designed for children and their adult caregivers, this program provides opportunities to discover, explore, and learn about the natural world together. Our goal is to inspire confidence and curiosity, giving families the tools and ideas to continue exploring nature on their own.

Program Structure

• Times:
  • Morning sessions 9:30 – 11:00 am
  • Afternoon session: 1:00 – 2:30 pm
• Programs are offered at both Cool Spring Preserve and Yankauer Nature Preserve.
• Each class includes circle time, a nature-themed story, a hands-on craft, and a short hike, all centered around a seasonal nature topic.
• The program is designed for children ages 3–5, but welcomes curious and adventurous two-year-olds to join in the nature-based fun.
• Each registered child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. They may have up to two adults and one sibling under two years old accompany them for free and without registering. Siblings above five are not permitted to attend.
• To ensure a quality program, we ask that guardians are actively supporting and engaged with their child(ren) to help them, and others, get the most out of the activities.
• All participants should be dressed for an outdoor program and ready to explore!
• Click here to view our policies, including cancellation policies.

Is your child ready for our Wee Naturalist program?

• They can hike approximately ¼–½ mile with short breaks, and/or the adult caregiver is willing to carry them for part of the hike if needed.
• They are able to participate in circle time with other children and caregivers while following basic group expectations.
• They enjoy being outdoors, exploring nature, and participating in simple, hands-on activities.