PRESCHOOL AND PRE-K on-site field studies and outreach programs
The Chattahoochee Nature Center (CNC) offers a variety of science education programs for all ages and grade levels. Our programs are designed to engage students’ natural curiosity and provide experiential learning opportunities in nature.
On-site Field Studies
All on-site field studies are conducted at CNC utilizing our trails, gardens, and other greenspaces, and include a guided trail hike and an encounter with one of CNC’s resident non-releasable animals. We recommend planning at least 2.5 hours for the full experience, which includes your 75-minute field study and additional time for lunch in our picnic areas, as well as exploring our interactive Watershed Gallery exhibit, Wildlife Walk, and gardens.
All programs are rain or shine. CNC utilizes indoor classroom space during times of inclement weather.
Core Grade Level Programs
These programs are available throughout the school year! Enhance your science curriculum with hands-on learning, live animals, and a nature-based experience.
Discover Nature
GSE: SD1 a,b,c,d
Listen for birds, smell the flowers, and feel the bark that can be found in the woods. In this program, students create their own definitions of nature by exploring the forested areas of CNC. Designed for Ages 4+
Plants and Trees
GSE: SD1 a,b,c,d; SD2 a,b,c
How does an acorn become an oak tree? Why are some leaves green while others are brown? Students will study a variety of plant items and learn about how plants grow and interact with other forms of life. Designed for Ages 4+
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OUTREACH PROGRAMS
Transportation Issues? Not a problem. Our team of knowledgeable and passionate naturalists can bring our high-quality programming directly to your school or outdoor space. All programs are designed to meet curriculum standards while strengthening their connection with nature and building upon their knowledge through hands-on activities. Each program will include a close-up encounter with one of CNC’s resident animals that will be sure to leave your students with an educational and memorable experience.
Programs can be booked Monday through Sunday, mornings, afternoons, and evenings, year-round.
Small Group Programs
These programs are designed for 30 or fewer participants. Programs include a live animal presentation; biofacts such as bird wings, turtle shells, or animal furs; an activity; and a question & answer session with a CNC Naturalist. Unless otherwise stated, these are one-hour programs.
Nature’s Wonders
GSE: SD1 a,b,c,d
Unlock the innate wonder and curiosity in each young learner with a hands-on exploration of the natural world. A CNC Naturalist will bring a variety of natural items for students to examine, and the Naturalist will conclude the program with an animal demonstration. 30 minutes | designed for 3–4-year-old students | 20 participants maximum
Plants and Trees
GSE: SD1 a,b,c,d; SD2 a,b,c
How does an acorn become an oak tree? Why are some leaves green while others are brown? Students will interact with and study a variety of plant items and learn about how plants grow and interact with other forms of life. Designed for Ages 4+
Story Time, Animal Time
GSE: LD1 d,f: SD1 a,b,c; SD2 a
Meet one of CNC’s resident animals and read a story about the wonders of nature. This program is perfect for young learners who are just starting their journey. 30 minutes | designed for students age 3 and younger | 20 participants maximum
Please Note: This program can only be scheduled in conjunction with another outreach program.
Large Group Programs
These programs are ideal for 31 to 150 seated participants. We offer auditorium and festival programs to meet your needs.
On the Road with Reptiles
GSE: SD2 a
This Information Booth is available for an unlimited mobile audience in a festival setting. With this program, CNC will bring a collection of fascinating reptile information to you. Using biofacts – such as skulls, turtle shells, and snake sheds – and hands-on activities, the Naturalist will share information about the many amazing reptiles found in Georgia. This program includes a live reptile, viewable in an aquarium. All ages | Festival-style presentation
PLEASE NOTE: A six-foot table in a shaded area is required for this program. The program must be held indoors when the temperature is less than 60 degrees.
Traveling Trunks
These prepackaged curriculum kits contain all the tools you need to create wonderful lessons about nature and wildlife. Rent a trunk for up to three weeks, and use the items within to supplement your lesson plans.
The Skunk Trunk – La Maleta de Mofeta
GSE: SKP1, SKL1, SKL2
“The Skunk Trunk – La Moleta de Mofeta” is a program all about the Five Senses. Using both Spanish and English vocabulary and curriculum, “La Moleta de Mofeta” is also a celebration of language. Filled with books, puppets, photographs, animal biofacts, and easy-to-use activities, the trunk will help teachers open doors for all children to have a better understanding of the five senses while learning about nature.