The new program list for the 2026-27 school year has been published.
We think its going to be another GREAT year of teaching and learning!
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Every year we publish a monthly program list that is available to any school interested with lessons designed for ages 2-12. Many of our schools are monthly subscribers and so their students enjoy the accumulation of information throughout the year. In this way, Dragonfly Nature Programs is able to review and scaffold our content while getting to know the students and supporting the amazing work of classroom teachers. Because we see the children month over month (and from year to year) we can assist with the reinforcement of classroom behaviors i.e. calling on students who raise quiet hands, catching bubbles, handling materials with care, knowing the difference between a question and a comment, sharing resources.
But for every school we see monthly, we see twice as many schools occasionally. Some schools enjoy 2-4 visits a year. Others solicit our services once in awhile. Regardless, we exist not only to promote environmental literacy and STEM education but to support all abilities, all behavioral challenges, and schools at any point on the socioeconomic spectrum.
There are limited slots for programming available. Don’t hesitate to book a nature study at your education center for the 2026-27 school year.
2026-27 Program List
SEPTEMBER Bear Aware: NC is home to a healthy population of black bears, the only bear found east of the Mississippi. Students will learn about their natural history and their survival adaptations.
OCTOBER Wonderful Weavers: Spiders are often feared but for little reason. In reality, spiders are hugely beneficial and often the most beautiful creatures around. Students will learn the defining characteristics of spiders and will compare different types of spider webs.
NOVEMBER The Mighty Oak: Students will learn tree anatomy this November with a focused study of the oak tree. A keystone species, it plays an outsized role in the environment and deserves our close attention.
DECEMBER The Splendor of Snow: This weather program celebrates the wonders of winter weather! Our young learners will be introduced to snow clouds, the intricate splendor of snowflakes and the ecological importance of snow!
JANUARY Variation Among Vertebrates: This program is a celebration of biodiversity! The 5 groups of vertebrate animals are so diverse and yet so similar. Students will view x-rays, handle bones and meet some lovable living vertebrates!
FEBRUARY Birds in the Field: Binoculars? Check. Bird Guide? Check. Our Curious Spirit? Check. We’re ready to go birding by sight and sound. This delightful program has kids up and actively learning to bird.
MARCH Kids Can Compost: What is compost? Why should we compost? How does it work? Students will get to handle worms, smell organic compost and learn a simple yet invaluable skill for living sustainably.
APRIL The Secrets of Flowers: Spring is here, flowers are in bloom. But these lovely plant parts aren’t just for show. They are anatomically intricate and reproductively necessary. In this program students will stop….and study the flowers.
MAY Shark Science: Summer means beach trips and beach trips means surf and sun and surf can mean sharks! YIKES! We want to encourage a love of these important sea creatures, not instill fear. So this month we’ll get curious about different species of sharks that swim along our NC coastline.
We are also very excited to rededicate our efforts toward providing our fun, active and educational after school program, Citizen Naturalists. We intend to hold 2 sessions per week year round. Do you think the elementary students at your facility would enjoy an outdoor education program during the after school hours on your campus? Contact Rachel to discuss options and pricing.