NPS Photo

Ranger Mary Laycock assisting children during nature program.

Interested in preparing your children for exploring the outdoors?  Wind Cave National Park staff will be offering a new program this spring designed to provide children ages 3 to 8 with skills that will encourage them to explore the natural world around them. These programs will provide an opportunity for young children to experience nature and nature play in a structured, safe environment. 

Adventures in Nature is designed to help youngsters and their caregivers to learn about nature and to explore the park, awakening a sense of wonder in the children and encouraging them to connect with the natural world.

Adventures in Nature programs will be offered on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month, beginning at 10 a.m. lasting about 1 ½ hours. The programs meet at the visitor center and are free of charge. The concluding program will be April 14.

These fun and exciting programs will vary in topic each week and will always include activities, crafts, and a hike that will explore the concept of the day. For additional information, contact the park visitor center at (605) 745-4600.

“We are excited about the opportunity these new programs provide,” said Vidal Davila, park superintendent.  “The nature programs will each have a different theme and are designed with educational objects appropriate for the age level of the students. Anyone home schooling preschool or early elementary children would benefit from these presentations.”

NPS Photo

Ranger Charlie Baker and young visitor.

Nature Explorers will explore many topics including:

Bark like a dog! Prairie dogs: learn about their homes and communication skills and how important these small animals are to our prairie community.

It's winter! How do animals stay warm out in the wild? Explore the many ways animals stay alive during the coldest months of the year.

Can you see me now? Many animals can disappear using their color and shape; learn how animals adapt to their environment.

Night creatures and their adaptations: How sneaky is a Black footed ferret?

From caterpillars to butterflies: Learn about these colorful flying flowers of the prairie.

A down and dirty activity:  Rocks, fossils, and soil – explore the beginnings of soil and rocks.

If you are home schooling your children and have older children that you wish to bring along, please do so. They can assist the younger children in their exploration and activities.