Afterschool & Weekend Clubs

Critter Club and Field Biologists Club are hands-on afternoon and weekend programs for kids who love animals and want to explore the natural world up close.

Each week, participants dive into a new ecological theme through hands-on investigation and extended encounters with our live reptiles and amphibians at the Lab. From learning how scientists classify life, to safely handling and measuring real snakes and amphibians, to exploring food webs, habitats, and conservation challenges, kids build a strong foundation in

ecology by doing science—not just hearing about it. Seasonal outdoor excursions, offered when weather allows, give participants the chance to search for reptiles and amphibians in the field and apply what they’ve learned in real habitats.

Our clubs foster a supportive community where kids ask questions, share discoveries, and learn alongside one another while having fun. By the end of each session, members leave with deeper knowledge of ecosystems and biodiversity, greater confidence around animals, and a stronger connection to the natural world.

Because age 10 can be a great fit for either group depending on maturity and interest, we’re happy to help families decide which club is the best match for their child.

Critter Club (Ages 5-10)

Field Biologists Club (Ages 10-14)

Critter Club (Ages 6-10)

Critter Club (ages 6–10 as of October 1, 2025) focuses on curiosity, observation, and building comfort with animals through playful exploration, guided discussion, and hands-on discovery.

Critter Club meets on Tuesdays from 4-6 pm and Saturdays from 8-10 am (Saturday sessions are a mixed-age group for students 6-14 years of age).

No Critter Club on the following days:

2/17, 3/17, 5/21, 5/23

Last day of Critter Club is Saturday, May 30, 2026.

Critter Club members must be 6-10 years old as of October 1, 2025.

Policies

Field Biologists Club (Ages 10-14)

Field Biologists Club (ages 10–14 as of October 1, 2025) emphasizes deeper ecological thinking, data collection, field skills, and scientific reasoning as students begin to think and work like real biologists.

Field Biologists Club meets on Thursdays from 4-6 pm and Saturdays from 8-10 am (Saturday sessions are a mixed-age group for students 5-14 years of age).

No Field Biologists Club on the following days:

1/22, 2/19, 3/19, 4/30, 5/21, 5/23

Last day of Field Biologists Club is Saturday, May 30, 2026.

Field Biologists Club members must be 10-14 years old as of October 1, 2025.