Ten weeks of fun and adventure for ages 3 -16! Member registration is currently underway!

Ages 3 and 4 with an adult

Y7        Dino Dig: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Dinosaurs big, dinosaurs little – find out about all sorts of dinosaurs in this active class. You’ll learn about giant reptiles, meet some present-day gentle lizards, sing songs, do a T-rrific dino dance and make a fossil to take home. Wednesday, July 30; 10:00-11:00
$10 Member adult/child pair/$15 Non-member pair

Ages 4-K

EC13   Mix It Up 2: Check out what’s cooking in our kitchen! Grab an apron and mix up super concoctions, from ice cream to slime. Give your special touch to some sweet treats as we investigate heat and see why certain ingredients make baked treats rise. Dress to get messy as we guarantee a week of ooey, gooey fun!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

EC14   Creepy Critters 2: Don’t let these creatures BUG you - learn all about insects and spiders. Search the museum, Animal Discovery and Country Park as you investigate creatures of the scaly and slimy variety. Build a critter catcher to take home.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 1-2

A13     Engineer It 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.Think it, build it, test it. If creativity, experimentation, and problem-solving get you going, then this camp is for you. Spend a week exploring the fascinating world of engineering. We’ll challenge your design and construction skills as you come up with solutions to science stumpers!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

A14     Jr. Archaeologist 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Uncover mysteries from fossil discoveries to ancient pyramids. The past will come alive as we embark each day on amazing archaeological adventures. Solve prehistoric puzzles, construct ancient inventions and follow a treasure map to unveil amazing science secrets!

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 3-4

B13     Outdoor Adventures 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Join us for some globe-hopping fun and games based on the science of geography. Can you really tell direction by looking at the stars or finding moss on a tree? Blaze new trails, make a magnet and design maps for fellow students to follow. Learn about cartography and explore the use of legends and scale in mapmaking.

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

B14     Solve It Science 2: Intrigued by puzzles and problems? Try to figure out some of our challenges using physics, forensics, engineering and chemistry. We’ve got the tools, you bring the creativity!

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 5-7

C13     Animal Care Camp 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Designed for the true animal lover, this week takes you inside Animal Discovery and animal professions. You’ll lend a hand in the zoo each day, learn about the care of all kinds of animals and meet animal professionals as they share their expertise with us. Dress for outdoor work with closed-toe shoes. Please, one session only.
9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

C14     Cool Chemistry 2: Chew bubble gum, pop popcorn and wet paper towels – all in the name of science. You’ll learn about compounds that change how things work and run scientific tests on common household items to find “the best.” You can also come up with ultimate recipes for fizzy, oozing and odiferous improvements.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Ages 3 and 4 with an adult

Y8        Fuzzy Fun: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. What makes you – and everything from aardvarks to zebras – a mammal? Find out and meet two fuzzy guests during class. At the end we’ll feed the hairy goats and wooly sheep in Animal Discovery.

Wednesday, August 6; 10:00-11:00
$10 Member adult/child pair/$15 Non-member pair

Ages 4-K

EC15   Science Safari 2: We’ll mix things up, make things move and get wild and wooly with the creatures of Animal Discovery. From the earth beneath your feet to the stars in the sky, we’ll explore the world of science! This science sampler week is sure to have something fun for everyone.

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

EC16   Rock ‘n’ Roll 2: Become a Junior Geologist as you learn how to identify rocks and minerals, start your own collection and create your own pet rock friend to take home. We’ll even cook up a delicious “dirt” snack. 

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 1-2

A15     Dig It 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Grab a shovel and dig into “dirty” science! Learn how to identify rocks and minerals, build a terrarium and meet creatures that really “dig” the dirt. Create edible earth science experiments as we enjoy a week filled with earth science fun.

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

A16     Motion Commotion 2: The sky is the limit as we investigate the science of motion! Test out Newton’s Laws and try to defy gravity. Design contraptions that soar through the air, speed through water and zoom across the land. On your mark, get set, GO!

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 3-4

B15     Eco-Explorers 2: What can a kid do about conservation? We’ll learn what makes a healthy ecosystem through fieldwork in wet and dry habitats. See how different practices affect water and energy use and how everyone can make a difference. You’ll even turn recyclables into art to display at the Science Center!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

B16     Edible Experiments 2: Why do we use baking powder or soda in cookies, and what’s the difference between liquid and solid oil and butter? Organic chemistry meets the kitchen cabinet in this class. Make your own chewing gum, test popcorn and discover the chemistry of scents and flavors.

Note: allergy information is very important for this class.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 5-7

C15     Green Team 2: Tour Animal Discovery’s new maned wolf exhibit and learn how this sustainable exhibit gives great examples of living lightly on Earth. Investigate power and conservation projects, make your own solar oven and visit the city’s recycling center to learn how we close the recycling circle in “Green”sboro.

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

C16     Animal Behavior 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Spend the afternoon hanging out with a wild crowd – the animals of Animal Discovery. We’ll tackle ethology, the study of animal behavior. You’ll learn how to design a study, interpret the results and present them at the end of the week. You’ll also meet zoo staff at different exhibits each day to talk about how we keep zoo animals stimulated and healthy.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Ages 3 and 4 with an adult

Y9        “Sounds” like Fun: Catch some good vibrations as we investigate sound. We’ll meet some “noisy” animals, try some musical experiments and make our own instruments to take home.

Wednesday, August 13; 10:00-11:00
$10 Member adult/child pair/$15 Non-member pair

Ages 4-K

EC17   Dino-Mite 2: Do you have a passion for the prehistoric? Join us as we unearth dinosaur facts, create our own fossils and imagine what life was like the days of the dinosaurs. It will be DINO-mite!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

EC18   Star Struck 2: Make your way to the Milky Way where the stars hang out! From comets to constellations, we’ll check out the amazing things that light up the summer night sky. Investigate the power of our star – the SUN! Take a trip to the OmniSphere Theatre and make your own space “crafts” to take home.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 1-2

A17     Amazing Animals 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Set out on a fantastic adventure to uncover wonders of the animal kingdom! Play animal games, create wild crafts and get up close to your favorite creatures. From feathers and fur to scale and slime . . . you’re going to have a WILD time becoming an animal expert at the Natural Science Center!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

A18     Aquatic Adventures 2: Explore the wet and wonderful world of the Natural Science Center. From collecting tiny plankton in Country Park to watching a shark feeding in our Aquarium, you’ll learn about all sorts of fresh and saltwater animals and habitats.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 3-4

B17     Fizz, Bubble & Flash 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Find out why cabbage and old eggs smell or why soda makes a penny shine. Discover which combinations create explosions or slime and how we use this in everyday life. Part chemistry, part physical science and all fun, you’ll gain a new appreciation for objects around your house!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

B18     Ani-maniacs 2: Rabid for reptiles, batty for birds and manic over mammals? You’ll learn about a different group of animals each day. Meet some in the classroom and observe others in the zoo for a complete picture of animals, their habitats and conservation.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Grades 5-7

C17     Adventures in Flight 2: Take off as you study flight! Start with birds and then see how flying and gliding inspired aerial architects. The workshop ends with rockets and you will build and launch your own creations on the last day.

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

C18     Mineral Mysteries 2: Do you dig geology? Learn about the earth’s past and present through fieldwork and experiments. Start your own rock and mineral collection, learn about different rock types and see where fossils enter the picture. Observe beautiful crystals and even grow  your own.

1:00-3:00
$65 Member/$85 Non-member

Ages 3 and 4 with an adult

Y10      Bubble Trouble: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. End the summer with a splash! Bathing suits are optional as we explore shapes and sizes of bubbles, different bubbly potions and take home a bubble picture.

Wednesday, August 20; 10:00-11:00
$10 Member adult/child pair/$15 Non-member pair

Ages 4-K

EC19   Water Wonders 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. The wetter, the better as we spend the week investigating H₂O! Visit the Kiwanis Kids’ Sea Cove and the Aquarium to meet animals that live in the water. Launch a water rocket and experience science with a “splash!” Don’t forget to bring a towel for the week!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

Grades 1-2

A19     Rockin’ Reptiles 2: Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Rock out with the reptiles at the Natural Science Center this summer with science fun that is off the scale. Observe a tortoise feeding, get up close to crocodilians and see what is so s-s-s-s-super about snakes. You’ll agree, they’re the hottest cold-blooded creatures in town!

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

Grades 3-4

B19     Rock Stars 2: Grab a pick and head outside to learn about local geology, then come in and take a trip around the world of gems. Find out what equipment you will need, pan for semi-precious stones and learn mineral folklore. Observe – and grow – your own crystals as you learn the difference in mineral structures.

9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

Grades 5-7

C19     Invention Convention 2: Ever wondered how something is invented? Dissect some common machines to explore how they work and learn how to engineer basic moving parts. Using creativity and imagination, experiment with everyday items to discover new ideas and new inventions. 
9:00-12:00
$95 Member/$125 Non-member

BG1     Beginner LEGOs

Ages 6-8

Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. Have a young LEGO problem-solver  who’s itching to join classes? This special week uses a hands-on approach to introduce our youngest engineers to teamwork, basic design skills and goals through the familiarity and fun of LEGO building. Based on the Junior FIRST LEGO League model, students investigate, design and build LEGO models in response to a set of challenges.

June 30-July 3: 1:00-3:00
$50 Member/$70 Non-member

EARLY (Engineering & Robotics Learned Young) Robotics

Ages 8-10

Do you love LEGOs? Do you love new challenges? Come join other LEGO fans in learning sound mechanical principles of building while exploring the exciting world of physics. EARLY LEGOs uses LEGO parts, motors and a battery box to motorize your LEGO creations and have a special challenge to solve! No computers are involved. Limit of two sessions. Please bring a snack and drink each day.

Each session: $95 Members/$125 Non-member

Week of June 30-July 3: EL3: Mon-Thurs: 9:00-12:00; $75 Member/$100 Non-member

EL1     June 16-20                 1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.
EL2     June 23-27                 1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.
EL3     June 30-July 3           1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.      

EL4     July 7-11                     9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.     

EL5     July 14-18                   1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.
EL6     July 21-25                   1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.
EL7     July 28-Aug 1             9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.     

EL8     July 28-Aug 1             1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

EL9     Aug 4-8                       9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.     

EL10   Aug 4-8                       1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

EL11   Aug 11-15                   1:00-4:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

EL12   Aug 18-22                   1:00-4:00  Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.    

LEGO Robotics

Ages 11-16

Explore the world of LEGO Mindstorm Robotics. We will build and program fully autonomous robots from LEGOs and RoboLab software. Everyone will have a hands-on opportunity to test his/her ability to solve an assortment of past FIRST LEGO League mission games. Experience LEGOs in a way you have never done before! LEGO Robotics uses a combination of programmable RCX and NXT bricks. All robotic actions are programmed by the participants and operate autonomously. This class works best for students of a HIGH CONCENTRATION LEVEL with WELL-DEVELOPED ABSTRACT THINKING SKILLS. Please bring a snack and drink each day.

Each session: $95 Members/$125 Non-member

Week of June 30-July 3: LR3: Mon-Thurs: 1:00-3:00; $50 Member/$70 Non-member

LR1     June 16-20       Mission Mars     9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR2     June 23-27       No Limits            9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR3     June 30-July 3 No Limits            9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR4     July 14-18         Ocean Odyssey 9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR5     July 21-25         Ocean Odyssey 9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR6     July 28-Aug 1   Nano Quest        9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR7     Aug 4-8             Nano Quest        9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR8     Aug 11-15         Power Play        9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

LR9    Aug 18-22      Power Play        9:00-12:00 Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list.

Ages 13-16

Class is full. Call (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 to get added to the waiting list. This special program is designed for Natural Science Center Members. Participants learn to work in the Science Center’s animal contact areas and with hands-on teaching materials. After receiving training, Junior Curators work weekly 3 hour shifts throughout the summer. A special end of the summer grand finale trip will also be planned. Potential Junior Curators should be willing to learn how to handle all species of animals in the education areas, including snakes, lizards and amphibians, and be comfortable working with the public. Please be aware that three hours a week is a special opportunity as well as an obligation. Fees include an official Junior Curator t-shirt.

Please note: Junior Curators must be members of the Natural Science Center and should not have previously served as a Junior Curator.

Beginning week of June 23 and continuing through the week of August 18. $50.00 Members only

The Natural Science Center science program features many exciting topics and activities. Our age-appropriate programs stress hands-on learning that is active and fun.

Pre-registration is required. Full class fees are due at time of registration. Membership may be purchased/renewed with class registration.

Member registration is currently underway!

No registrations will be processed before this date.

After March 18, members may register the
following ways:

In Person: Monday-Friday
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

By Mail: Full payment must be included with the completed registration form. Send to: Natural Science Center Summer Classes, 4301 Lawndale Drive, Greensboro, NC 27455. If class enrollment is full, you will receive a phone call and a full refund.

By Phone: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at (336) 288-3769 ext. 315. Registration accepted with VISA and MasterCard.

Participants should register according to their rising grade level (2008-2009 year) unless otherwise specified. Please do not ask to register your child for a class that he/she does not qualify. Preschoolers must be the required age by the first day of the workshop. All students in morning workshops (9:00-12:00) should bring a snack and drink). Refunds for withdrawals will be made if the Museum is notified at least 14 days in advance. A service charge of $5 per participant per workshop or supervision session will be charged. The Museum reserves the right to cancel a class due to insufficient enrollment.

Have questions or need additional information? Contact our Education Department at (336) 288-3769 ext. 315 or click here to send an email.

Lunch supervision is available to Summer Science Exploration participants. Please be sure that your child brings a bag lunch that does not need to be refrigerated. Children must keep up with their own lunches, so be sure to label your child’s container. Cold beverages are available from the lunchroom vending machines. During this time NSC staff will be providing supervision only. There is no planned activity, but play materials will be provided to entertain the participants. Children will be brought to their afternoon sessions or readied for pickup in the lobby. Register for lunch supervision as you would a workshop.

Lunch supervision sessions are $10.00/week. June 30-July 3 week is $8.00.

L1: June 16-20                      
L2: June 23-27                      
L3: June 30-July 3 (4 days)
L4: July 7-11                         
L5: July 14-18
L6: July 21-25
L7: July 28-Aug 1
L8: Aug 4-Aug 8
L9: Aug 11-Aug 15
L10: Aug 18-22