Registration for Fall 2026 will open on TUESDAY, August 18 at 6:00 a.m.
Nature play is at the heart of learning at Great Lakes Aquarium. In our nature play groups, we emphasize learning through child-inspired and child-directed nature play experiences. Children are encouraged to let their curiosity guide their play as they climb, build forts, jump, examine rocks, and so much more. These types of free play experiences promote the development of observation and questioning skills, safe risk-taking, motor growth, creativity, language skills, empathy, and social-emotional skills while promoting deep connections to nature.
New this fall: we are offering two different age groups. Please see below for more information.
Chickadees Nature Play Group
Ages: 4-6 year olds
Dates: Weekly classes run September 24-December 17 (No class November 26)
Session time: Thursdays, 12:30-2:00 p.m.
Cost: $170 members | $190 non-members
Kestrels Nature Play Group
Ages: 6-10 year olds
Dates: Weekly classes run September 25-December 18 (No class November 27)
Session time: Fridays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cost: $170 members | $190 non-members
Email the Learning Team at education@glaquarium.org to request a scholarship application.
Questions? Contact the Learning Team at 218-740-2025 or education@glaquarium.org.
Playscape signage funding support provided in part by Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program’s FFY24 Task 306-11: Funding Small Pass-through Grant Project. Funding administered by Jay Walker, Executive Director and Dr. Shawna Weaver, Director of Learning & Engagement. For more information, contact: jwalker@glaquarium.org.