Discovery Themes and Curriculum

Tracking Northern Michigan Wildlife– Have you ever wondered who walks through the forest at night? In this adventure, kids become wildlife detectives! We search for tracks, trails, and other clues left behind by Michigan’s amazing animals. You’ll learn to tell a fox track from a raccoon’s, and even build your very own animal tracking tool to take home! ★ Try This: Before your visit, look for animal prints in mud or snow near your home. How many different animals can you find?

Michigan Birds & Migration Birds are nature’s musicians — and they have a lot to say! Kids learn to use binoculars, spot and name local Michigan birds, and listen to what their calls really mean. We explore why different beaks are shaped differently, and play exciting games that show just how incredible the journey of migration really is. ★ Try This: Stand outside quietly for 2 minutes and count how many different bird calls you can hear. What do you think they are saying?

Plants & Trees of the Forest The forest is full of plants with amazing secrets! Kids discover which plants are helpful and which ones to avoid, how leaves turn sunlight into food, and why every plant plays an important role in the food chain. We make leaf and bark rubbings, sketch plants, and play games that bring the forest floor to life in a whole new way!★ Try This: Pick up a leaf on your next walk outside. Can you see the veins? Try making a rubbing with a crayon and paper to reveal its hidden pattern!

Water Cycle & Water Critters Water is on an incredible never-ending journey — and tiny creatures come along for the ride! Kids follow the water cycle from clouds to creeks, then go hands-on lifting rocks and logs to discover the amazing bugs and critters that live in Michigan’s wet zones. Through songs and movement, the water cycle comes alive in a way kids will never forget! ★ Try This: Next time it rains, watch where the water goes. Does it soak into the ground or flow into a puddle?

Curriculum with Michigan State Standards