This summer Fort Hays State University's Sternberg Museum of Natural History is all about Kansas critters. The museum is hosting seven programs, collectively called "Kool Kansas Kritters," on select Thursdays for the area's budding scientists.
Two programs will be held on each of the selected Thursdays, from 1 to 2 p.m. for children age 4 to 7, and 3 to 4 p.m. for children ages 8 to 12.
"Kold-blooded Kansas Kritters," on June 11, lets children get in touch with scaly creatures that crawl in and out of Kansas fields. The registration deadline is June 8.
"Fur, Feathers, Claws and Jaws," June 18, allows children to discover the differences between birds and mammals and what makes each unique. The registration deadline is June 15.
"Exploring Giant Squid," taking place June 25, investigates the mysterious creatures that live deep in the ocean and gives children a tour of the museum's summer exhibit, "In Search of Giant Squid." The registration deadline is June 22.
"Taking Flight," July 23, teaches children how bats, birds, insects and airplanes fly. The program will take a close look at flight by building and flying a variety of paper airplanes and assessing which models fly the best. The registration deadline is July 20.
"Who's New," July 30, gets cozy with "cute and cuddly" newborns including snakes, lizards, birds and mice among others. The registration deadline is July 27.
"No Bones About it," Aug. 6, lets children look through microscopes at the invertebrates that inhabit the streams, creeks and ponds of Kansas and teaches them how these animals are an important part of the environment. The registration deadline is Aug. 3.
"Monarch Mania," Aug. 13, explores caterpillars and their transformation into butterflies. The class will build caterpillar houses so each child can take home a monarch caterpillar or egg so they can experience its transformation, weather permitting. The registration deadline is Aug. 10.
All children must be accompanied by an adult for each section of the program. While registration deadlines are the Monday before the program, early registration is preferred as each class is limited to 30.
All programs are free except "Monarch Mania," which is $10 per child. For more information or to register, contact Brian Bartels, museum educator, at (785) 628-5502 or firstname.lastname@example.org.