Environmental Education

Burlington Recreation & Parks offers a variety of environmental and nature-based learning programs geared towards kids and families. Programs focus on raising awareness and understanding of the natural world around us while fostering a sense of wonder, curiosity, and environmental responsibility that leads to a stronger connection to nature. Programs are active, hands-on, and fun! The instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about nature! You won't want to miss out on these special programs!

What's Happening Now:

  • Nature Play: for elementary-age students and their families.
  • OutdoorU: tailored specifically for homeschoolers and their families. 
  • Sprouts: preschool nature program for ages 2-5 and their caregiver.  Coming January 2024!
  1. Nature Play - for Families
  2. OutdoorU - for Homeschool
  3. Sprouts - for Preschoolers

Nature Play Logo


Nature Play programs are geared to get families with elementary-aged kids engaged in nature, learning, playing, and having fun! Some of the programs are educational in focus, while some are purely fun! All ages are always welcome, but minors must be accompanied by a participating adult. Space is limited for all programs and registration is required!


  • TREEmendous Trees!
    Saturday, December 16 from 2:00-3:30 pm
    Burlington City Park - Thataways Youth Center - 1331 Overbrook Rd. Burlington
    Fee $5/child.     Register now!
    Dive into the fascinating world of trees, leaves, and seeds! Nature Specialist Jessica will teach you all about the secrets hidden within these incredible wonders of nature. Learn how to determine the age of a tree and discover the parts of a tree that provide the support strength, and nourishment it needs to thrive. You'll also explore the vital role trees play in supporting other organisms. Go on a short journey to investigate a rotten log and uncover any creatures living within. You'll also have an opportunity to let your imagination run wild as you create your own unique leaf art masterpiece!

  • Imagination Unleashed!
    Saturday, January 6 from 2:00-3:30 pm
    Homebuilders Building at City Park - 1435 Overbrook Rd. Burlington
    Fee $5/child.     Register now!
    Let your imagination run wild creating, building, bubbling and more! During this session become a bubble-oligist as we study and create with bubbles! Then get clever constructing a gnome home or fairy house. Wrap up the session by showing off your creativity with our special "Loose Parts Challenge!" 

  • Art, Naturally
    Saturday, January 20 from 2:00-3:30 pm
    Homebuilders Building at City Park - 1435 Overbrook Rd. Burlington
    Fee $5/child.     Register now!
    Let's make art - but naturally! Bring out your creative side as we explore various natural art mediums to create masterpieces! 

  • Riversheds and Waterways
    SUNDAY, February 4 from 2:00-3:30 pm
    Homebuilders Building at City Park - 1435 Overbrook Rd. Burlington
    Fee $5/child.     Register now!
    Learn about riversheds - what they are, why they're important and which one you live in! 

  • Animal Adaptations
    Saturday, February 17 from 2:00-3:30 pm
    Homebuilders Building at City Park - 1435 Overbrook Rd. Burlington
    Fee $5/child.     Register now!
    Learn about animal adaptions - an animal's physical and behavioral traits that help it survive and thrive in its habitat!

  • Spring Session (March-May) dates coming soon!