The Kansas Wetlands Education Center offers a monthly series to get kids outside exploring and off their devices. KWEC’s WILD programs are free of charge and don’t require registration.
On June 14 from 10-11 a.m., kids can discover what types of mammals live on the KWEC nature trail. Participants will check Sherman traps, a box-style trap to catch live small mammals. They will identify, collect data, and then release any mammals captured. In addition, participants will study some of the tracks in the area and look for any other clues mammals may have left along the trail.
On July 12 - 10-11 a.m. If it flies, crawls, jumps, or swims, kids will want to catch it during our July WILD activity. After crafting a bug catcher, armed with nets, participants will head out to the KWEC nature trail in search of insects. They will see what types of insects they catch and then identify them. After walking the trail, participants will examine and hold the KWEC classroom Vietnamese Walking Sticks, Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches, and Giant Millipedes.
Drop-in Nature Crafts
Join KWEC on select Fridays from 1-4 p.m. this summer for a free, come-and-go nature craft. Before completing the craft, attendees will participate in a quick learning activity about the craft theme. The activities are geared toward kids 5-12, but all ages are welcome.
June 14 - Seed Kaleidoscope - craft and decorate a mesmerizing kaleidoscope using seeds, beads, and other nature items for a unique display of images.
June 21 - Pollinator Puddler - Celebrate Pollinator Week by creating a small dish with jewels and rocks to create a water source for bees and butterflies.
July 5 - Snake Skin Suncatcher - using sheds from the KWEC snakes, create a unique suncatcher to place in the window.
July 12 - Hammered Flower Banner - after selecting colorful blooms from the KWEC pollinator garden and marsh area, pound the colors onto a banner to take home!
For those who want a more immersive nature experience, KWEC is offering Nature Discovery Camps. Camps feature outdoor exploration, including animal and plant investigations through fun activities, nature-related crafts, and games.
July 16 and 18 – 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
For students who have completed 1st-3rd gradesRegistration Fee - $20The deadline to register is June 26Campers must bring a sack lunch. KWEC will provide snacks. Before and aftercare is available for an additional $10 - 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
July 23 and 25 – 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
For students who have completed 4th-6th gradesRegistration Fee - $20The deadline to register is June 26Campers must bring a sack lunch. KWEC will provide snacks.Before and aftercare is available for an additional $10 - 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
KWEC is also a participating venue in the Sunflower Summer Program. The Sunflower Summer Program benefits Kansas families with school-aged children, encouraging them to explore and fall in love with Kansas. This program gives affordable access to tourism attractions across the state and supports the Kansas tourism economy. Eligible Kansas families can download the Sunflower Summer App to claim tickets to participating venues.
The 2024 Sunflower Summer season will run from May 25 to Aug. 11 at the KWEC. Participants who check in using the app at KWEC will receive a free nature craft kit with a field guide. For more information, visit SunflowerSummer.org.
KWEC is located at Cheyenne Bottoms, 10 miles northeast of Great Bend, on K-156 Highway. For more information, call 877-243-9268 or visit wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu.