Throughout the year the Ballard Nature Center strives to offer programs to the community that appeal to all ages and interests, such as Hoot & Howl Hike, Woodpecker Walk, Firefly Fun, Noisy Frogs, Native Flower Arranging, and Family Science Day. Programs are available for children, adults, families, and groups. Ballard also provides several cub scout and girl scout programs throughout the year.
Outdoor Day takes place each fall. Local artisans, historians, teachers, biologists, and volunteers pull together for this family event. Outdoor Day offers presentations with live animals, archery, fishing, petting zoo, face painting, children’s games and more.
Toddler Trot is for kids ages 2-5 alongside a parent/grandparent. Each program may include stories, games, crafts, and a trail walk. Toddler Trot runs from September through April.
Family Science Day is offered in February and is led by professor Brian Poelker and university student volunteers. Past topics for this event include Dinosaurs Devour Ballard, Ballard Defies Gravity, and Science Rocks. Participants to this event are actively involved as they visit many hands-on learning stations after a presentation by Mr. Poelker. Children and parents go away from this event filled with new-found knowledge and a heightened appreciation for science.
