Preschool Programs

Morning Munchkins

Red Oaks Nature Center

Join us for an exciting series just for preschoolers ages 3-6. Bring your munchkin to the nature center for a favorite story and related hands-on, nature-based discovery activity. Events in this series are held on the first Friday of each month. Programs take place rain or shine. Dress for the weather as portions of the program may be outdoors.

Puddle Jumpers

Wint Nature Center

Children ages 3-6 can enjoy some nature fun as they increase their love of the outdoors. A naturalist will engage children with a story, nature talk and a related hands-on activity. Each child will make a craft to take home. This series meets on the second Friday of each month. Programs take place rain or shine. Dress for the weather as portions of the program may be outdoors.

Program Information

Preschool Nature Programs

How to Register

Preregistration is required for Morning Munchkins and Puddle Jumpers programs. The fee is $5/child for each session. There is no fee for adults.

To view monthly topics, and to register, visit our online shop.

Other ways to register

Call 248-858-0916 during business hours to register and pay by phone. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted.

Register in person at the Red Oaks or Wint nature centers or at the parks office, 2800 Watkins Lake Road in Waterford during regular business hours. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Red Oaks and Wint nature centers have American Sign Language interpreters available during specific programs as noted on the Nature Education Program Schedule. Please call Red Oaks Nature Center at 248-585-0100 or Wint Nature Center at 248-625-6473 for more information.

Braille is included on the animal displays at Red Oaks Nature Center.

Need an interpreter or accommodation? Please let our staff know!

Outdoor Discovery Camp

Date:

08/03/2026 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Immerse your child in the wonders of nature

Outdoor Discovery Camps are week-long summer day camp experiences for children ages 6-11. Available at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston, Red Oaks County Park in Madison Heights and Waterford Oaks County Park in Waterford, each week will focus on a different nature theme with unique daily outdoor activities guided by experienced staff.

Camps will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday the weeks of Aug. 3 and 10. Additional child care will be available from 3-5:30 p.m.

Depending on the camp location, campers will experience a variety of outdoor recreation experiences like kayaking, archery, golf, gardening, fishing, biking, climbing, orienteering and more.

Outdoor Discovery Camps are offered in partnership with MSU Extension.

Details:

Campers will enjoy hiking adventures, create nature-based projects, and gain a sense of belonging in the natural world
Call Chief of Nature and Outdoor Education Ashlie Smith at 248-705-7212 for more information