A monthly program series for very young children ages 18 months–3 years (and their grown-ups!) where we listen to a story, practice developmentally appropriate skills, interact with other youngsters and enjoy nature outside whenever possible. Preregistration is required for these free, 30-minute programs. Walk-ups are not guaranteed a spot.

Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!
Tuesday, May 7, 10:30–11 a.m.
Pretty ladybugs, fluttering butterflies and round roly polies are just some of the familiar creatures featured in "Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!" by Bob Barner. We’ll even examine some of the neat bugs that live around Blue Jay!  

A Fawn in the Grass
Tuesday, June 4, 10:30–11 a.m.
Gather together to listen to "A Fawn in the Grass" by Joanne Ryder and then practice our observation skills as we take a short walk on the trail and look for critters at just our level.

Nature Stories is a 1-hour program for children ages 3–6, with a participating parent/adult, and includes a combination of inside time and outside nature exploration. Preregistration is required for these free, 1-hour programs. Walk-ups are not guaranteed a spot.

Bluebirds of Happiness
Wednesday, April 10, 1–2 p.m.
Come find your own bluebird of happiness and learn why these birds are ready for spring. We’ll even take a peek inside a real nest box!

Feeling Froggy
Wednesday, May 15, 1–2 p.m.
May is absolutely hopping at Blue Jay Point! Learn about frogs and toads while investigating real live tadpoles.

Marvelous Mud
Wednesday, June 12, 1–2 p.m.
Get down and dirty while we learn about the components of soil and what happens when you add water – mud!

Family Wildlife Series (FWS) programs are usually open to all ages, although information and activities are most appropriate for ages 5 years and up. Occasionally there will be a FWS program with a higher age limit – if so, it will be indicated in the description. All members of the family in attendance must be registered to attend the program – if you are unable to register a family member, either the size limit of the class has been reached, or that child does not meet the age limit to attend. Don't forget, kids are not required to attend – individual adults are welcome!

Preregistration is required for all Family Wildlife Series Programs unless otherwise stated. Walk-ups are not guaranteed a spot.

Feeding Frenzy
Saturday, April 27, 11–11:30 a.m. & 12:30–1 p.m.
Just like human babies, baby birds need soft food to get started. Squishy insects are a critical part of a baby bird’s diet. Find out how parent birds find insects for their young and what kinds of plants will bring those yummy insects to your yard. We’ll play a Feeding Frenzy game where the race to feed your hungry little chicks is on! For ages 6–11. Part of Songbird Celebration, find out more information here.

The Great Bug Bake-Off
Saturday, April 27, 1:15–2 p.m.
Have you ever watched a baking or cooking show? Do you think you can make a “winning” confection for migrating birds? Learn how important insects are for a bird’s diet and then compete to pull all the ingredients together in a game to win the Great Bug Bake-Off prize! For ages 12–15. Part of Songbird Celebration, find out more information here.

Pill Bug Science
Saturday, May 11, 10–11 a.m.
Pill bug, roly-poly, woodlice, doodlebug – for one small "bug," they sure go by a lot of different names! Discover more about these superb composters that live in the hidden world right beneath our feet.

Fantastic Frogs
Saturday, May 25, 10–11 a.m.
Hands-on frogs (or tadpoles, at least!) will star in this day’s activities. We will practice some frog calls, learn about frog life cycles and food chains and then search for frogs and tadpoles in the Blue Jay pond. Part of the ecoEXPLORE Herpetology season.

“Leaf” it to Me
Saturday, June 8, 10–11 a.m.
Learn what trees need to grow, and “leaf” knowing how to ID common trees by their summer foliage.

Just Winging It
Saturday, June 22, 10–11 a.m.
Learn about the intricacies of bird behavior as you bird watch in a new way!

Whether you are an outdoor buff wanting to hone your skills, or a dabbler who would just like to try something new, come hang with the Blue Jay staff and work on some Serious Skills! Criteria II or III or CEU credit may be available for participants in the NC EE Certification Program, depending on the session. Preregistration is required for all SSA sessions. SSA session topics run the gamut from Field ID workshops to Eco-Crafts and Upcycling! Preregistration is required.

Check back for updates!

Blue Jay Point offers a variety of educator programs, including a number of workshops for NC Environmental Education Certification or CEU credits.

Adult Bird Hike
Saturday, April 27, 8:30-10 a.m. 
Join NC State Park I & E Specialist Brian Bockhahn on a hike to locate spring migrants through bird song and observation. Bring your own binoculars or use a loaner pair. Enjoy a cup of shade-grown coffee when you get back! Criteria II/III or Continuing Ed credit available for the NC Environmental Education Certification Program. For ages 16yr & up.

Check out Songbird Celebration (Saturday, April 27) for more hikes and activities going on that day you can count towards Criteria II/III.

Check out our Serious Skills of Adults for some great opportunities for Criteria II and III or Continuing Education hours.

Do you like to explore parks and preserves? Do you like winning prizes? Our Junior Park Explorers program is for you! Learn more here.