Youth & Family Programs
At the Highlands Center
We offer programs and events for youth and families throughout the year. Experiences are rooted in discovering and exploring the diverse ecology of the Central Highlands. Youth are inspired to reflect on the awe and wonder of nature and are empowered to become wise caretakers of the land. For a complete list of upcoming events, please view our calendar.
Nature Camps
Highlands Center Nature Camps are a meaningful way for children of all ages to spend time immersed in nature discovering the wonders of the Central Highlands. From the animals to plants to fungi and everything in between, our hope is to inspire children to develop a deeper sense of place and understanding of the natural world around them.
Field Trips
Field trips are offered to all students and are facilitated by HCNH education staff. Every field trip to the Highlands Center includes exploration, science education, hiking, and reflection.
Early Childhood Education
You’re never too young to embrace the wonders of nature and to become a wise caretaker of the land. We are continually expanding our Early Childhood programs to encourage young children and their families to come play and learn together at the Highlands Center.
Day Programs
Our day programs immerse kids in the wonders of nature through hiking, experiments, games, and nature-based activities. Designed to spark curiosity and build a connection with nature, these programs let students discover wildlife, plants, and the natural world around them, one adventure at a time.
Schoolyard Habitat
The Schoolyard Habitat Program is a partnership between the Highlands Center and local schools. Each year the Highlands Center works with a new school to implement the program by developing and maintaining a site-based outdoor native habitat and facilitating standards-based lessons in the habitat.
Family Programs
We offer educational programs for families throughout the year regarding the natural history of the Central Highlands of Arizona. For our complete list of upcoming events, please view our calendar.
Discovery Saturdays
Come on out to the Highlands Center for Natural History for Discovery Saturday! Learning Stations highlighting the many wonders of the Central Highlands will be set up throughout our Discovery Gardens. The learning stations provide each visitor the chance to learn and to become wise caretakers of the land.
Family Forest Play
Bring your littles to the Highlands Center for some free family fun in the forest! We will meet at 10am in Forest Play to read stories, explore nature-related topics, go on hikes, play games, and do crafts! This program is designed for children ages 0 to 5 and their adult(s). This wonderful program is free, but does require pre-registration for each date as there are limited spots available.
Please email Sarah if you have any questions at sodonnell@highlandscenter.org
Upcoming Events
Discovery Saturdays
Come on out to the Highlands Center for Natural History for Discovery Saturday! Learning Stations highlighting the many wonders of […]
Discovery Saturday – Halloween Edition
Come on out to the Highlands Center for Natural History for Discovery Saturday! Learning Stations highlighting the many wonders of […]
Discovery Saturdays
Come on out to the Highlands Center for Natural History for Discovery Saturday! Learning Stations highlighting the many wonders of […]
Fall Break Camp
Nature Camp (Ages 6–10)
Join us for a week of outdoor adventure and discovery! Nature Camp runs Monday through Friday, 8:00 […]
Seedlings Fall Break Camp
Seedlings Nature Camp (Ages 3-5, must be able to use the restroom independently)
Join us for a week of outdoor adventure […]
Autumn Storytelling With Sharon McFeely and Katia Nyysti
Autumn Story Telling With Sharon McFeely and Katia Nyysti
Sharing Myth, fairy and folk tales.
Imagine the Season Between
Summer and […]
Wreath-Making Workshop
Wanna get crafty?!?! Feeling the holiday spirit?!?!
Come join us at the Highlands Center for Natural History on Saturday November […]
Wreath-Making Workshop
Wanna get crafty?!?!
Feeling the holiday spirit?!?! Come join us at the Highlands Center for Natural History on Saturday November 7th […]
Wreath-Making Workshop
Wanna get crafty?!?!
Feeling the holiday spirit?!?! Come join us at the Highlands Center for Natural History on Saturday November 7th […]
Frankenpumpkins
Create your own Frankenstein-inspired pumpkin using loose parts from bolts to springs! All materials provided, including the pumpkins. This event […]
Spooky Stories & S’mores
Time to get a little spoooooky on Halloween Eve! Join our incredible storytellers and make some s’mores by the fire!
Event […]
Nature Melodies
Music in nature for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers
Discover the joy of music in the great outdoors! Join us […]
Nature Melodies
Music in nature for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers
Discover the joy of music in the great outdoors! Join us […]
Nature Melodies
Music in nature for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers
Discover the joy of music in the great outdoors! Join us […]
Don’t see what you’re looking for?
Design your own program.
Have an idea for a program that isn’t listed? We can help you create a custom experience tailored to your group’s needs, schedule, and goals. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll follow up to start planning.
Plan Your Visit or Program
Interested in an upcoming class, group visit, or school program? Reach out here and we’ll help you find the best fit.
