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.

10 Fat Turkeys
Tuesday, Nov. 12, 10:30–11 a.m.
Gobble, Gobble, Wibble, Wobble! Join us for "10 Fat Turkeys," by Tony Johnston, a silly story about turkeys and numbers – we’ll practice some colors, too!

Forest Tracks
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 10:30–11 a.m.
Have you ever left a wet footprint on the pavement at the pool? Animals leave tracks behind, too! Enjoy "Forest Tracks," by Dee Dee Duffy, and then we’ll experiment with making tracks, as well.

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.

Nature Colors & Shapes
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 1–2 p.m.
Mother Nature is dressed in an amazing array of colors and shapes. Let’s go for a hike and see how many we can find!

Gobble, Gobble!
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 1–2 p.m.
Join us as we strut down a woodland trail learning about that fantastic, feathered fowl – the turkey!

Nature Neighbors
Wednesday, Dec. 11, 1–2 p.m.
Learn about our winter animal neighbors and make a special treat to feed the birds.

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.

Howl-o-Ween
Saturday, Oct. 19, 2–3 p.m.
Learn all about the reintroduction of Red Wolves into the NC wilds and about the expansion of coyotes into NC territory.

Getting Treed
Saturday, Nov. 9, 2–3 p.m.
Practice your tree ID on a wander through the fall woods, and then design a “leaf critter” out of pressed leaves to take home.

Holiday Habitat Helpers
Saturday, Dec. 14, 2–3 p.m.
You can attract winter wildlife to your backyard by providing or improving their habitat. We’ll check out Blue Jay’s garden area for some ideas before creating several simple habitat helpers you can add to your own yard.

Fossil Fundamentals
Saturday, Dec. 28, 2–3 p.m.
What the heck is a fossil, and where do you find them? You can start your very own fossil collection as you explore the basics of fossils.

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.

EENC GrEEn Holiday Crafting
Sunday, Dec. 8, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. *Please note time shift for program*
GrEEn Holiday Crafting is an annual gathering of Environmental Educators of NC Central Section members (folks from other sections are welcomed too!) and prospective EENC members. What to expect? First of all, a fun, relaxing afternoon with other EENC members plus some yummy snacks! Second of all, enjoy a variety of free crafting activities led by EENC members.

If you can, please bring the following items to share:

• Holiday snack food to share
• Snips of greenery or sturdy herbs
• Old Christmas/winter themed cards
   

Everything else you need will be provided!

To find out more about EENC, follow the link.

Introduction to Birding
Saturday, Dec. 28, 9–11 a.m.
Birding is quickly becoming one of the most popular outdoor hobbies, for good reason! Whether you already call yourself a birder or you’re just interested in learning a little more, this class is for everyone. We’ll learn various ways to bird, practice some bird calls, and go on a walk to see what December species we can find. Our walk will be approximately 1.5 miles on terrain ranging from pavement and gravel to grass. For ages 16 & up. Counts towards NCEE Criteria II or III.

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

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.