Winter Wonders: Indoor Nature Adventures for Kids Await!

OPINION|

It can be enticing to spend the whole months of January and February cozied up in our dwellings, where no one needs to deal with winter jackets or knitted hats — especially with young kids who swiftly desire to take them off.

More troublesome than bundling up, though, is the chaos that erupts when youngsters — and their guardians — experience cabin fever. It’s beneficial for everyone to move outdoors and enjoy a bit of nature, even if it’s enjoyed indoors.

Springfield presents an array of nature-themed indoor activities excellent for young children. We’ve compiled a list of forthcoming indoor events and matched them with suggestions for brief outdoor excursions (to help release some energy). Free events are listed first, with a couple of paid options at the end.

Complimentary activities for kids in Springfield this winter

These activities are entirely arranged by nature enthusiasts — and funded by tax revenue — making them completely free. The standard of these programs is excellent, frequently led by volunteers who have a deep affection for children’s enjoyment and nature.

Garden Story Time (indoors) at the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park

SATURDAY, Jan. 18

A themed storytime is held biweekly at the Springfield Botanical Center (the large facility at the Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park). The organizers pair delightful crafts or activities with a picture book every third Thursday and the following Saturday. This month’s theme revolves around planting seeds, stated Ambur Gossen, a horticultural interpreter at the Botanical Center.

“I’ll lay down a drop cloth inside, and we’ll have the kids plant seeds. It might get a bit messy,”

Gossen remarked, chuckling.

Gossen recommended that guardians keep an eye on the Park Board’s Facebook page, or enroll to receive the “This Month in Parks” events calendar via email.

Get outdoors! Arrive early or linger later to enjoy the playground immediately adjacent to the Botanical Center entrance.

TIP: Nestled within the Botanical Center is a charming reading area for both children and adults. The small library features numerous gardening and plant books for adults, in addition to an inviting collection of picture books for kids. Visitors are welcome to explore the mini library whenever the Botanical Center is open.

Chipmunk Chatter (indoors) at the Springfield Nature Center

TUESDAY, Jan. 28

Though it’s chilly outside, the Springfield Conservation Nature Center remains warm and inviting, where naturalists are conducting a program for kids. As part of the Nature Center’s ongoing “Little Acorns” series, the event this month showcases chipmunks, who excel at enduring winter’s challenges. Families can discover their diet, habitats, and ways to spot or listen for them outdoors.

Once the program concludes, take time to investigate the indoor displays at the Nature Center, which include numerous interactive exhibits along with live fish, snakes, and turtles.

Get outdoors! Arrive early to enjoy a winter stroll along the paths, then cozy up next to the (actual) wood-burning fire in the lobby prior to the program starting.

Storytime with Ms. Ladybug (indoors) at the Springfield Nature Center

WEDNESDAY, Feb. 5

Facilitated by volunteers Joyce Tolliver and Linda Brown, who’ve been entertaining children — fully adorned in ladybug attire — for two decades, this storytime gathering is far more than charming narratives. The monthly program incorporates songs and dances for little ones to expend their energy, conversations about seasonal changes, and unstructured playtime following with plush songbirds. The children receive a small treat bag to bring home, while parents enjoy a full 30 minutes to unwind in a chair and observe the excitement.

Get outdoors! Many of the nature pathways are brief enough for preschool-aged walkers. Our preferred route is to take the blue trail down to the water and back.

Inexpensive activities to enjoy with kids during winter in Springfield, Mo.

These community events require a little fee to participate but are aligned with nature-centered adventures for preschoolers.

Owl Prowl and Hot Chocolate Bar at the Springfield Lake Boathouse

FRIDAY, Jan. 24

Gather your children for a mesmerizing evening at the Springfield Lake Boathouse, where owls take center stage. The evening commences with a talk by experts from Dickerson Park Zoo, featuring live owl representatives. Next, set off on a guided walk through the park to listen to these magnificent birds in their natural surroundings. Conclude the experience with a delightful hot chocolate bar, perfect for the entire family. You can check the event details on the Park Board website.

Beavers educational camp at Wonders of Wildlife

TUESDAY, Feb. 25

Wonders of Wildlife offers an event series designed for homeschooling families, including P.A.L.S. sessions that are ideal for preschoolers. These one-hour instructive classes educate young children about animals. They tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to register early for the February session focused on North American beavers. Beavers possess several incredible traits that make them distinct and adapt them well to their environment. Participants will discover all this and more through interactive activity stations, crafts, and storytelling.

Get outdoors! Fassnight Park is merely a 3-minute drive from Wonders of Wildlife, making it an excellent location for exercising before or after the event. The ancient stone walls and mature trees appear stunning in winter. Be sure to visit the playground or stroll across the old bridges.