Early Childhood Programs

Every day is an adventure with Oakland County Parks' new Early Childhood Programs. Choose from two options: Tiny Twigs, for ages 2-6 with a caregiver, or Little Acorns, for ages 3-5, designed with a drop-off and pick-up format. Both are offered as a series, with three sessions available in fall, winter and spring.

Tiny Twigs

Red Oaks Nature Center and Wint Nature Center

Young explorers lead the way, discovering nature through curiosity, movement and hands-on play. With their caregivers, early learners are encouraged to splash through puddles, search for tiny creatures, collect treasures and build confidence and connection through outdoor exploration. There's a different theme each week. Participants must register for the entire series.

Children attend with a caregiver
Dates/Times: Fridays, Oct. 9-Dec. 4 from 10-11 a.m. (no class on Nov. 27)
This is the fall session. Winter and spring sessions will also be offered
Cost: $80/child/series (caregiver is free)

Little Acorns

Red Oaks Nature Center and Wint Nature Center

Children will explore new themes each week through discovery, hikes and hands-on exploration. Their confidence and curiosity will build with a deeper connection to nature.

Children are dropped off and picked up, attending class independently
Participants must be fully potty trained
Dates/Times: Tuesdays, Oct. 6-Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-noon (no class on Nov. 24)
This is the fall session. Winter and spring sessions will also be offered
Cost: $96/child/series

Additional Program Information

Programs take place rain or shine. Dress for the weather as portions of the program may be outdoors.

These items are highly encouraged:

Closed-toe shoes
Clothing that can get messy
Refillable water bottle

Recommended but optional items

Sunscreen and bug spray during warmer months
Coat, hat and gloves
Snack

View the Fall Early Childhood Nature Education Series Brochure

How to Register

Preregistration for the whole series is required for the Tony Twigs and Little Acorns programs. Caregivers will receive an email prior to the start of the program with additional details about weekly themes. Register online anytime.

Other ways to register

Call 248-858-0916 during business hours to register and pay by phone. VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted.

Register in person at the Red Oaks or Wint nature centers or at the parks office, 2800 Watkins Lake Road in Waterford during regular business hours. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Please call Red Oaks Nature Center at 248-585-0100 or Wint Nature Center at 248-625-6473 for more information about American Sign Language interpreters and additional accommodations.

Braille is included on the animal displays at Red Oaks Nature Center.

Need an interpreter or accommodation? Please let our staff know!