The following guide provides a full listing of grades 6-12 education programs provided to schools and institutions. Many of the descriptions note which New York State Standards are addressed in the program. All of our top quality programs can be customized for presentation at your location unless otherwise indicated. For grades 6-12 programs, this includes student clubs, large groups, assemblies, and scout troops.
GRADES 6-12
Animal Adaptations – Year-round – 90 minute program
Animals rely on a variety of instinctual behaviors and physical traits to survive in the wild. In this engaging program, students will explore how local wildlife use adaptations like camouflage, hibernation, and migration to thrive in their environments. Through a combination of classroom discussion and an exploratory outdoor hike, students will also examine the environmental challenges facing these species today—including habitat loss and climate change.
Also available as an outreach program – Meet the Animals.
NYS Standards: The Living Environment – 3.1a, 3.1b, 3.1c, 3.2a, 3.2b, 5.1a, 5.1b, 5.1d, 5.1e, 5.1f, 5.1g, 6.1a, 6.1b, 6.1c, 7.1a, 7.1b, 7.1c, 7.1e, 7.2c, 7.2d
Wildlife Conservation – Year-round – 90 minute program
Our planet is facing serious environmental challenges that threaten global biodiversity. In this eye-opening 90-minute program, students will explore key conservation issues including habitat loss, invasive species, poaching, pollution, and more as they examine how these threats impact wildlife around the world. Students will also meet animal ambassadors at the Nature Center, each representing a specific conservation topic, to help bring these critical issues to life.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
Birds of Prey/Avian Ecology – Year-round – 90 minute program
These magnificent birds captivate all who watch them soar, swoop, and dive. In this program, students will explore the unique characteristics that distinguish raptors from other birds, using both live animals and museum artifacts. At the outdoor Birds of Prey House, they will observe firsthand the remarkable physiology and adaptations that help these predators thrive.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
Orienteering – Year-round – 90 minute program
While smartphones and GPS devices are useful, understanding how to navigate with a map and compass is an essential skill. Equipped with these traditional tools, students will learn the fundamentals of map reading and navigation, gain a deeper understanding of New York’s geography, and explore the dynamic relationship between people and the natural environment. They’ll put their skills to the test by navigating an outdoor orienteering course designed to challenge and inspire.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
Recycling: Where Does All the Garbage Go? – Year-round – 90 minute program
Conserving natural resources starts with simple, everyday actions. This empowering program introduces students to the 3Rs- “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”- and teaches how small choices can make a big difference for the environment, economy, and wildlife. Through an interactive sorting game, Trash Mountain, students will explore the types and volume of the waste that we generate and discover practical opportunities for reusing and recycling materials. They’ll also learn how our community manages waste and consider ways that we can better align with nature’s interconnected cycles.
Also offered as an outreach program. This program can be customized to highlight the specific recycling and composting practices of your school or organization.
Aquatic Ecology/Watersheds – April through June – 90 minute program
A seemingly quiet pond is teeming with life and activity just below the surface. In this hands-on exploration, students will use a variety of tools to investigate aquatic ecosystems and identify macroinvertebrates. They’ll study the interrelationships, life cycles, and adaptations of the plants and animals that call the Nature Center’s pond home. This program is designed to foster an understanding of the delicate balance that is upheld in pond ecosystems and how easily that balance can be disrupted.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
Bees – April through October – 60 minute program
The Nature Center is home to hundreds of thousands of buzzing bees! In this sweet and educational program, students will explore our grounds and get an up-close look at some of our six-legged residents. The hour includes hands-on experiences with real pollen, wax comb, and an empty hive, plus a delicious honey tasting, courtesy of our hardworking bees. Students will also take part in interactive activities that highlight the importance of pollination and the roles bees play within their hive.
Available as an outreach program.
Native Americans of the Eastern Woodlands – Year-round – 90 minute program
In this immersive program, students will experience a day in the life of the Northeastern Woodlands Native Americans, who inhabited our land 6,000 years ago. Visiting our full-scale replica longhouse, wigwam, and canoe, students’ imaginations will soar as they learn how indigenous peoples met their needs for food, shelter, medicine, family and community. They will also have the opportunity to feel a connection to Native American families by playing with actual Lenape toys and working with replicated tools and artifacts.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only. Additional $50 material fee.
NYS Standards: NYS Science Standard: 1, 4, 5; NYS Social Studies Standard: 1, 2, 3
Native American Tools & Toys – Year-round – Outreach Only
Through hands-on experimentation with replicated artifacts such as stone axes, arrowheads, mortar and pestles, students will gain insight into how Native Americans in the Westchester area met their daily needs. They will also have the opportunity to try out traditional toys used by Native American children—tools for both play and practicing essential survival skills.
NYS Standards: NYS Science Standard: 1, 4, 5; NYS Social Studies Standard: 1, 2, 3
Bugs and Insects – May through October – 90 minute program
Embark on an invertebrate safari and uncover the fascinating world of insects! Students will compare insect life cycles to those of humans, explore the vital roles insects play in ecosystems, and learn how humans depend on these often-overlooked creatures. Through up-close encounters with live insects and hands-on exploration, students will discover the incredible diversity and survival adaptations of these “creepy crawlers.” The adventure continues outdoors, where students will observe insects in their natural habitats across varied landscapes.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
NYS Standards: Standard 4- 5.1a, 5.1b, 5.1d, 5.1e, 6.1a, 6.1b, 6.1c
Winter Birds/Avian Ecology – December through March – 60 minute program
By observing a variety of birds from our live animal museum, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of avian anatomy and behavior. They’ll learn how to identify common winter birds, explore why some species migrate while others adapt to colder climates, and discuss how climate change is impacting bird behavior and migration patterns. To support local wildlife, students will also create a pinecone bird feeder (peanut-free) to hang outdoors and attract feathered visitors to their own backyard.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
NYS Standards: Standard 4- 3.1a, 3.1b, 3.1c, 5.1a, 5.1b, 5.1d, 5.1e
Maple Sugaring – March – 90 minute program
Take a sweet journey through history! Students will travel back in time to explore the origins of maple sugaring, with stops at our outdoor sugaring sites showcasing Native American, colonial, and modern-day techniques. Along the way, students will see traditional tools in action and take part in a tasty challenge. Can they tell the difference between corn syrup and 100% pure maple syrup?
This program is offered at the Nature Center only. An additional $50 materials fee applies.
NYS Standards: Standard 4- 6.2a, 6.2b, 6.2c
Composting & the Magic of Decomposition – April through October – 90 minute program
Through exciting, hands-on investigations, students will dive into nature’s incredible process of decomposition by exploring various composting methods. They’ll discover how water, air, bacteria, fungi, and macroinvertebrates work together to break down organic matter into nutrient-rich compost. Students will also learn how humans can enhance and manage this natural process through effective composting techniques. This outdoor program runs rain or shine, offering an immersive experience in the cycle of life and renewal.
This program is offered at the Nature Center only.
Carbon Footprint – Outreach Only
In this program, students will explore the concept of a carbon footprint and examine how their everyday actions contribute to its size and environmental impact. Through interactive discussions and activities, they’ll gain insights into the connection between personal choices and climate change. The program culminates in a hands-on activity where students can experiment with alternative lifestyle decisions and see how these changes can reduce their carbon footprint. Students will leave with a clearer understanding of their role in shaping a more sustainable future.
Energy Innovation in our Food Systems – Outreach Only
Explore the expansive and intricate food systems that bring our meals from farm to table! In this program, students take a firsthand look at the many steps involved in food production and distribution while examining just how complex and energy intensive these processes can be. By looking to both the past and the future, students will be challenged to develop innovative ideas to reduce waste within the system. Each session is thoughtfully tailored to match the needs and abilities of the participating students.