The Science and Nature Program

The Science and Nature Program

The Science and Nature Program enhances children's understanding of and respect for the natural world, engages children in the foundations of scientific inquiry, and provides a window into the wonders of the Museum. 

Experienced science educators work with Museum scientists and specialists to create age-appropriate learning experiences in classrooms and Museum halls that reflect the Museum's research and scientific collections, including in zoology, Earth and planetary sciences, anthropology, and paleontology. 

Children and Adults Learn Together

Designed for young children, the Science and Nature Program meets weekly throughout the school year. 

Parents or grandparents attend class with children through 2nd Grade, a core principle of the program based on research that shows that young children attain deeper levels of understanding and richer connections to their learning when significant adults are present. 

Admissions

The entry-level class of the Science and Nature Program is Young Scientists Kindergarten. Children must be entering Kindergarten in the Fall of 2023 in order to be eligible to apply. For younger children, please refer to the Early Adventures Program.

The Science and Nature Program classes are small, so enrollment in each class is limited. Application reviews will take place in March and April.   Eligible families will be contacted for a second round in the application process.  Final decisions will be made and families will be notified of their acceptance status in May.

Children who enter the program as Young Scientists will be offered the opportunity to re-enroll each year, so availability in higher grades is limited. Families applying starting in 1st through 5th grade will be contacted to continue in the application process only if spaces become available.

Refunds and Cancellations

IIf, after enrolling, you find that your child will be unable to participate in the Science and Program, please notify us in writing via email Science&[email protected] by Friday, June 16, 2023.

Tuition payments are non-refundable after Friday, June 16, 2023. After that date tuition will be applied towards the Science and Nature Program's financial aid fund.

More Information

For more information about other class offerings affiliated with the Science and Nature Program, please see the Early Adventures Program and Adventures in Science pages.

If you have questions about the Science and Nature Program, please email us at Science&[email protected]

Health and Safety During Onsite Programs

The health and safety of our participants and staff is the top priority. You’ll notice some important changes to the Museum, our classrooms, and health and safety measures. For more information, please visit the Health and Safety page.