Our Learning and Engagement programs emphasize the importance of enriching lives through the conservation of trees, nature and history.
Arboretum guests are invited to broaden their perspectives, engage with professional educators, and be inspired by the world around us.
Contact us at learning@dawesarb.org for more information.
Little Buckeyes
Little Buckeyes Imagination Station activities is a seasonal opportunity for children ages 3-8 to get moving as they observe and create in nature! View our calendar to see all Little Buckeyes activities.
Preschool Storybook Science
Preschool Storybook Science sessions explore quality children’s literature in a natural setting! Each session may include outdoor exploration, songs, games and crafts suitable for children ages 3-5 and their caregiver. View our calendar for dates.
Dawes StoryTrail™
The Dawes Arboretum’s StoryTrail™ is an outdoor environmental literary experience. Each year, we highlight a children’s story for families to read on signs as they explore this specially designed trail.
Home School Investigations
Calling all home schoolers! Supplement your science curriculum with hands-on nature study! Join other home school students, ages 6-10, as we explore nature in a fun, informative and enriching 90-minute program led by Arboretum educators. Visit our calendar to register for upcoming sessions.
Scout Field Trips
For Scouts looking for an adventure: The Arboretum is the perfect setting for a scout field trip, whether you choose to work on badge requirements or simply hike along our 12+ miles of trails (1.5 miles of which are accessible)! Check our events calendar to find programs tailored to scouts.
Pop-Up Exhibits
Experience nature in a new way by visiting a pop-up exhibit. Displays highlight various natural phenomena seen during your visit. There is something to learn for everyone from beginners to experts. Stop by the Visitors Center on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4pm beginning in March 2025!
Home School Investigations
Supplement your science curriculum by joining other home school students in hands-on nature study!
Home School Investigations that are targeted for students between ages six and 10 are held on the first and third Friday from 1:30 - 3 p.m. in the Zand Education Center.
Home School Investigations for students between ages 11 and 13 are held throughout the school year from 1:30 - 3 p.m. in the Zand Education Center.
The fee for each session is $8 for members and $10 for non-members, and one adult admission is included. Accompanying adults may enjoy The Arboretum's grounds or join the class.
Reservations are required.
2026 - 2027 Home School Investigations, ages 6 - 10:
Sept. 4: Bird Beak Investigation
Sept. 18: Pollinators at Work
Oct. 2: Have Seeds, Will Travel
Oct. 16: Every Tree for Itself
Nov. 6: Go Bucks!
Nov. 20: Water Wonders
Dec. 4: Japanese Garden Exploration
Dec. 18: Gifts from Nature
Jan. 15: Wildlife in Winter
Feb. 5: Tracks and Traces
Feb. 19: Maple Syrup Tour
March 5: Papermaking 101
March 19: Have to Have a Habitat
April 2: Wiggly Worms
April 16: Spring Amphibians
Home School Investigations, ages 11 - 13:
Sept. 25: The Name Game: Classification
Oct. 23: Solar Snacks: Photosynthesis
Jan. 22: Zooming In: Cells & Organelles
Feb. 26: DNA Detective: Introduction to Genetics
March 26: Digging Through the Past: Fun with Fossils
April 23: Nature's Clock: Phenology & Seasons
Camp Dawes
Camp Dawes is The Dawes Arboretum’s summer day camp program!
Camps journey through a variety of ecosystems, observe nature, create outdoor-inspired crafts and cultivate a sense of curiosity and adventure, all while stretching their comfort zones and making new friends. Children participate in both structured and self-guided activities under the guidance of trained camp staff. Offerings are for ages 5-14 and scholarships are available.
