2020 Fall Programming

Schools and families can expect fun, experiential, and educational programming in ways that will accommodate and enrich whatever learning format families are choosing. All programs run at the Center will take place primarily outdoors. Other programs that correlate with Next Generation Science Standards are being adapted so that schools or groups can host a live-streamed or pre-recorded virtual programming or safe in-person programs with our naturalists.

For individual students, we are increasing our Homeschool sessions and adding new Field Days at Schlitz Audubon, where children can come and engage with nature in a safe manner on their days away from school. We are also introducing Nature Activity Boxes, interactive and self-guided learning to teach science and foster independence at home.

Will Schlitz Audubon offer in-person nature programs for us? What types?

Yes! Schlitz Audubon will continue to offer our traditional field trips at the Center and nature-based programs at your site including schools, libraries, or homes. Simply review the listings in our Education Brochures to learn about dozens of available programs. These include live programs with our birds of prey, reptiles, and amphibians, as well as a diverse array of experiential learning activities. These programs are delivered in a manner that is optimally safe for all involved.

Tell me more about Schlitz Audubon’s virtual learning!

To ensure that our programs are accessible to everyone, we have developed a two-pronged approach to virtual learning this fall. Through live stream virtual programming, our naturalists will interact in real-time with participants. Our wide range of live topics include programs with our birds of prey such as Owls: Designed for Darkness and Eagles & Friends, as well as themes on Reptiles and Amphibians, Insects, Animal Adaptations, and more.  If streaming is not an option for you, we offer pre-recorded options for schools or homes that include complementary learning materials on subjects like Lake Michigan, Mammals of Wisconsin, and Beaks & Talons.

Can anyone purchase your nature programming?

Yes, our learning is available to anyone who wants to bring nature to their organization including daycare centers, libraries, assisted living facilities, retirement homes, or simply your home for quality family time!

Does Schlitz Audubon offer options for my child on their “learn from home” day?

Yes, Field Days at Schlitz Audubon will welcome your child to spend a morning or afternoon at the Center. Following the success of our 2020 summer camp season, Field Days will emphasize outdoors and healthy activity through an exploratory approach. Designed to complement and enrich the current curriculum appropriate for children aged 5-10, participants will engage in educational activities while exploring the outdoors through the seasonal changes.

Tell me more about Homeschool at Schlitz Audubon.

Our Homeschool program is a rigorous, yet fun science and project-based educational format designed for students aged 6 – 14 years old. Each monthly session combines indoor and outdoor activities with take-home learning extensions at the end of every session.

What are Nature Activity Boxes? Will these be available for my child?

Each of our NEW Nature Activity Boxes explores a specific bird theme, including All About Owls, Migration & Everything Birds, and contains five lessons with information sheets, video links, and materials for activities. You and your family can work at your own pace while you learn more about our feathered friends! Our fun-filled boxes can be shipped to your home or purchased in our Nature Store.

What else is Schlitz Audubon doing this fall?

We are open for hikes through our prairies and woodlands, across our ponds and ravine, and down to the Lake Michigan shoreline. Our programs for people of all ages are conducted in a safe and thoughtful manner. These include guided hikes, Raptor Saturdays, adult field trips, and a book club. We are also continuing to offer birthday parties and scout outings. We will be hosting our wildly popular Xtreme Raptor Day as well as our Halloween-themed Species Spooktacular; both will take place completely outdoors and will be scaled-back with managed capacity, but just as fun and engaging as always!

Will you continue to follow the safety standards you had this summer?

Yes! The health and safety of our program participants, staff, and everyone in the Schlitz Audubon community is our top priority. Here are some of the changes we have made:

• Programs take place outdoors as much as possible
• Reduced group sizes and smaller staff-to-participant ratios
• Everyone is required to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible or they are indoors

When can I start signing up for these programs?

Our Registrar is already booking school and group programs for in-person programming. Details of virtual offerings will be posted in early September. You can let her know of your interest via this form. Registration for Field Days and Homeschool takes place via our online calendar. Homeschool registration is available now; Field Days will be posted next week in our Event Calendar. Nature Activity Boxes will be available for purchase mid-September.

Who should I contact to learn more about fall programming?

If you have questions or would like more information, please contact our Registrar, Danielle, at dgulke@schlitzaudubon.org.