Multi-Age Programs on-site field studies and outreach programs
Chattahoochee Nature Center offers a variety of science education programs for all ages and grade levels. Our programs are designed to engage students’ natural curiosity and provide experiential learning opportunities in nature. Are you looking for a great program for your mixed-age group? Check out these fun programs, each themed with activities and a live animal encounter. Fun and educational for all ages!
On-site Field Studies
All on-site field studies are conducted at CNC utilizing our trails, gardens, and other greenspaces, and include a guided trail hike and an encounter with one of CNC’s resident non-releasable animals. We recommend planning at least 2.5 hours for the full experience, which includes your 75-minute field study and additional time for lunch in our picnic areas, as well as exploring our interactive Watershed Gallery exhibit, Wildlife Walk, and gardens.
All programs are rain or shine. CNC utilizes indoor classroom space during times of inclement weather.
Programs
These programs are available throughout the school year! Enhance your science curriculum with hands-on learning, live animals, and a nature-based experience. Recommended appropriate ages included.
Amphibian Survival (3RD-8TH Grades)
GSE: S3L1 a,b,c: S3L2 a,b: S3L1 a,b,c: S3L2 a,b: S4L1 a,b,c,d: S5L1 a; S5L4 a; S7L4 c
While viewing amphibian monitoring stations, students will examine some of the factors affecting the survival of amphibians, and therefore, the survival of other species in the ecosystem.
Basic Needs of Plants and Animals (K-2nd Grades)
GSE: S1L1 a,b,c
Explore the trails at CNC and discover the many plants and animals that live there. Along the way, we will compare and contrast the survival needs of the organisms we find.
Insect Investigation (2nd-4th Grades)
(available March-September only)
GSE: S2L1 a,d: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c
This program explores the trails of CNC to learn about and discover insects and what positive things these fascinating animals do for the environment.
Mammals (K-5th Grades)
GSE: SKL2 a: S1L1 a,b,c: S2L1 a,c: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1 a
In this warm and fuzzy program, the Naturalist will explain the identifying characteristics of mammals and tell you what species to look for around your home. This program will conclude with an opossum presentation.
Nature’s Recyclers: Discovering Decomposers (4th-8th Grades)
GSE: S4L1 a,b,c; S7L4 a,b
Explore the nature center trails and garden compost piles to learn all about the role of decomposition in the energy flow of an ecosystem. Investigate decomposers such as insects and fungus through hands-on activities.
Nature Journaling and Field Sketching (K-12th Grades)
GSE: VAK.CR.1 a,b; VAK.CN.2 a: VA1.CR.1 a,b; VA1.CN.2 a: VA2.CR.1 a,b; VA2.CN.2 a: VA3.CR.1 a,b; VA3.CN.2 a: VA4.CR.1 a,b; VA4.CR.2 a,c; VA4.CN.2 a: VA5.CR.1 a,b; VA5.CR.2 a,c; VA5.CN.2 a: VA6-8.CR.1 a,b; VA6-7.CN.2 a: VAHSDR.CR.2 a; VAHSDR.CR.4 a; VAHSDR.CN.1 d,e
This field-based experience combines science, writing, and art to help students develop a broader understanding of the natural history of their environment by using the wonderful natural setting at the Chattahoochee Nature Center.
Plants and Trees (preK-5nd Grades)
GSE: SD1 a,b,c,d; SD2 a,b,c: SKL1 a,b SKL2 a,b; ELAGSEKL6: ELAGSE1SL3: S1L1 a,b,c: ELAGSE2SL3; S2E3 a,b; S2L1 c,d: ELAGSE3SL3; S3L1 a,c; S3L2 a,b: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1 b; ELAGSE5SL3
How does an acorn become an oak tree? Why are some leaves green while others are brown? With the help of a CNC Naturalist, students will study live plants on CNC’s grounds and hypothesize about how they grow and interact with other forms of life.
Raptors (3rd-5th Grades)
GSE: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c,d: S5L1 a
This program focuses on the birds of prey that call Georgia home. Habitats, adaptations, and conservation issues will be discussed. Hands-on owl pellet dissection is included.
Reptiles and Amphibians (K- 5th Grades)
GSE: SKL2 a: S1L1 a,c: S2L1 a: S3L1 a,b,c: S3L2 a,b: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1a
Focusing on Georgia native species, students will learn about these fascinating animals while exploring the grounds and looking for them in the wild.
Wildlife Discovery (K-4th Grades)
GSE: SKL1 a,b SKL2 a,b; S1L1 b,c; S2L1 a; S3L1 a,b,c; S4L1 a,b,c
Become a Naturalist and hone your observation skills as you explore CNC. Hike the forest trails, search high and low for signs of life, and study the plants and animals that call Georgia home.
Water & Wetland Programs
Enhance your science curriculum with onsite hands-on learning in our local waterways, live animals, and a nature-based experience. 2 time slots available per date.
Pond Study I (3rd-5th Grades)
(available March-November only)
GSE: S3L1 b,c; S3L2 a,b: S4L1 a,b,c,d: S5L1 a; S5L4 a,b
Using dip nets, students collect macroinvertebrates to identify and use them to make inferences about the condition and health of the pond habitat.
This program is limited to 75 students per time slot.
Pond Study Advanced (6th-12th Grades)
(available March-November only)
GSE: S6E6 b: S7L4 c,d; S6E6 b: S7L4 c,d: SEV1 e; SEV4 a; SB5 a,c
In this hands-on field study, students will survey a local freshwater aquatic ecosystem to learn how scientists monitor water quality to ensure the ongoing health of our local watershed. Sources and impacts of different types of pollutants will be discussed as they learn about and sample benthic macroinvertebrate organisms in the pond that serve as bioindicators of water quality.
Limited to 75 students per time slot.
Wetland Ecology (6th-12th Grades)
GSE: S6E6 b: S7L4 a,b,c,d: SEV2 d; SEV4 a,b; SB5 a,c,d,e
To better understand the functions, value, and importance of this ecosystem within the Chattahoochee River watershed, students will sample and identify wetland soils, learn about the biodiversity of wetland plants, and use a wetland model to discuss the beneficial functions of wetlands.
Wild Wetlands (3rd-5th Grades)
GSE: S3L1 b,c; S3L2 a,b: S4L1 a,b,c,d: S5L4 a,b
Students hike our river wetlands boardwalk to learn about the unique relationships of this very fragile and important ecosystem.
Canoe Skills and Team Building (4th-12th Grades)
(available April – October only)
Groups with little or no paddling experience can learn how to paddle with a 3-hour introductory canoe program in one of our ponds (includes 1.5 hours of instruction and paddling and 1.5 hours for self-guided exploration of CNC’s grounds and trails). All Naturalists are CPR/First Aid certified and experienced paddlers. CNC provides all equipment – canoe, paddles, and personal flotation devices for all participants. No prior canoeing experience is necessary.
The maximum capacity is 27 students/adults per pond.
STARLAB PROGRAMS
Using an inflatable planetarium, a CNC Naturalist will lead students on a journey through the night sky to view constellations and the solar system. StarLab is also a terrific program to bring to your school. Please inquire about space limitations when booking the StarLab as an outreach program. A StarLab program can be adapted for Astronomy Club meetings or classes. (The maximum number of participants is 60).
StarLab I
GSE: S2E1 a,b
Students will learn about the brightness and color of stars while viewing the constellations. They will also observe the phases of the moon through a hands-on activity using models.
StarLab II
GSE: S4E1 a,b,c,d; S4E2 a,c
Students discover the difference between stars and planets.
StarLab III (6th Grade)
GSE: S6E1 b,c,e
Students will explore our earth’s position in the solar system and the solar system’s position in the Milky Way. We will also discuss deep sky objects, moon phases, seasons, and lunar and solar eclipses.
Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) StarLab
GSE: S2E1 a,b; SS2H2 a; SS2G2 b,c,d
Students will first learn about the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) peoples of Georgia, then enter our planetarium for stargazing and stories about Native American myths about the stars.
Lewis and Clark StarLab
GSE: S4E1 a; SS4H3 c
Students will explore the navigation technology used by Lewis & Clark by measuring distances between the stars. They will determine the latitude and longitude of their current location based on Lewis & Clark’s techniques. They will also consider how Lewis & Clark adapted to their environment for survival.
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OUTREACH PROGRAMS
Transportation Issues? Not a problem. Our team of knowledgeable and passionate naturalists can bring our high-quality programming directly to your school or outdoor space. All programs are designed to meet curriculum standards while strengthening their connection with nature and building upon their knowledge through hands-on activities. Each program will include a close-up encounter with one of CNC’s resident animals that will be sure to leave your students with an educational and memorable experience.
Programs can be booked Monday through Sunday, mornings, afternoons, and evenings, year-round.
Small Group Programs
These programs are designed for 30 or fewer participants. Programs include a live animal presentation; biofacts such as bird wings, turtle shells, or animal furs; an activity; and a question & answer session with a CNC Naturalist. Unless otherwise stated, these are one-hour programs.
Basic Needs of Plants and Animals (K-2nd Grades)
GSE: S1L1 a,b,c
What are the basic needs of plants and animals? How do different organisms meet these needs? We will compare and contrast how native Georgia plants and animals survive in the wild.
Engineered from Nature (6th-12th Grades)
GSE: STEM-FET-6; STEM-FET-8.1; STEM-EC-5.2; ELAGSE7SL1: VAHSDR.CR.2 a; VAHSDR.CR.4 a; VAHSDR.CN.1 d,e
How can nature help us solve human problems? Engineers use the adaptations of plants and animals to design products that improve people’s lives. Students will be introduced to biomimicry, and after meeting one of CNC’s non-releasable raptors, will apply the adaptations of raptors to engineer solutions to real-life issues.
Mammals (K-5th Grades)
GSE: SKL2 a: S1L1 a,b,c: S2L1 a,c: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1 a
In this warm and fuzzy program, the Naturalist will explain the identifying characteristics of mammals and tell you what species to look for around your home. This program will conclude with an opossum presentation.
Plants and Trees (preK-5nd Grades)
GSE: SD1 a,b,c,d; SD2 a,b,c: SKL1 a,b SKL2 a,b; ELAGSEKL6: ELAGSE1SL3: S1L1 a,b,c: ELAGSE2SL3; S2E3 a,b; S2L1 c,d: ELAGSE3SL3; S3L1 a,c; S3L2 a,b: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1 b; ELAGSE5SL3
How does an acorn become an oak tree? Why are some leaves green while others are brown? With the help of a CNC Naturalist, students learn about different plants and hypothesize about how they grow and interact with other forms of life.
Raptors (3rd-5th Grades)
GSE: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c,d: S5L1 a
This program focuses on the birds of prey that call Georgia home. Habitats, adaptations, and conservation issues will be discussed. Hands-on owl pellet dissection is included.
Reptiles and Amphibians (K-8th Grades)
GSE: SKL2 a: S1L1 a,c: S2L1 a: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1a; S3L1a,b,c; S3L2a,b
Focusing on Georgia native species, students will learn about the different characteristics of these fascinating animals.
Wildlife Discovery (K-4th Grades)
GSE: SKL1 a,b SKL2 a,b; S1L1 b,c; S2L1 a; S3L1 a,b,c; S4L1 a,b,c
A general introduction to nature and wildlife, students will explore the native plants and animals of Georgia through fun hands-on activities, observation and a live animal presentation.
StarLab Programs
Using an inflatable planetarium, a CNC Naturalist will lead students on a journey through the night sky to view constellations and the solar system. StarLab is also a terrific program to bring to your school. Please inquire about space limitations when booking the StarLab as an outreach program. A StarLab program can be adapted for Astronomy Club meetings or classes. (The maximum number of participants is 60).
StarLab I
GSE: S2E1 a,b
Students will learn about the brightness and color of stars while viewing the constellations. They will also observe the phases of the moon through a hands-on activity using models.
StarLab II
GSE: S4E1 a,b,c,d; S4E2 a,c
Students discover the difference between stars and planets.
StarLab III (6th Grade)
GSE: S6E1 b,c,e
Students will explore our earth’s position in the solar system and the solar system’s position in the Milky Way. We will also discuss deep sky objects, moon phases, seasons, and lunar and solar eclipses.
Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) StarLab
GSE: S2E1 a,b; SS2H2 a; SS2G2 b,c,d
Students will first learn about the Cherokee and Muscogee (Creek) peoples of Georgia, then enter our planetarium for stargazing and stories about Native American myths about the stars.
Lewis and Clark StarLab
GSE: S4E1 a; SS4H3 c
Students will explore the navigation technology used by Lewis & Clark by measuring distances between the stars. They will determine the latitude and longitude of their current location based on Lewis & Clark’s techniques. They will also consider how Lewis & Clark adapted to their environment for survival.
Large Group Programs
These programs are ideal for 31 to 150 seated participants. We offer auditorium and festival programs to meet your needs.
Georgia Wildlife Journey (K-12th Grades)
GSE: SKL1 a,b; SKL2 a: S1L1 b: S2L1 a: S3L1 a,b,c: S4L1 a,b,c: S5L1 a: S7L4 a,b,c: SEV2 d; SB5 a,b,c
This popular one-hour educational program focuses on animals that make their home in the Georgia Piedmont. This program will include presentations of an opossum, snake, and bird of prey.
Ages 6+ | 150 or fewer participants
Hunters in the Sky (K-12th Grades)
GSE: SKL1 a,b; SKL2 a,c: S1L1 b,c: S2L1 a: S3L1 a,b,c; S3L2 b: S4L1 a,b,c,d: S5L1 a: S7L4 a,b,c:SEV2 d; SB5 a,b,
This one-hour educational program focuses on raptors, some of our most fascinating native predators. A CNC Naturalist will utilize fun activities with large props and audience involvement to teach participants about these native birds and their impressive abilities. This program will include presentations of an owl and a hawk.
Ages 6+ | 150 or fewer participants
On the Road with Reptiles (All ages)
GSE: SD2 a: SKL2 a: S1L1 b: S2L1 a: S3L1 a,b,c; S3L2 b: S4L1 a,b: S5L1 a: S7L4 a,b,c: SEV2 d; SB5 a,b
This Information Booth is available for an unlimited mobile audience in a festival setting. With this program, CNC will bring a collection of fascinating reptile information to you. Using biofacts – such as skulls, turtle shells, and snake sheds – and hands-on activities, the Naturalist will share information about the many amazing reptiles found in Georgia. This program includes a live reptile, viewable in an aquarium.
All ages | Festival-style presentation
PLEASE NOTE: A six-foot table in a shaded area is required for this program. The program must be held indoors when the temperature is less than 60 degrees.
NOTE: Audience limits are set to ensure an optimal experience for every student participant. Audience size may not exceed the published limits without permission of the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Audiences who do exceed the published limits will incur additional session fees. Please contact us if you have any questions about our policies.