DELTONA, Fla. — It’s summer and kids are out of school, so for parents looking for something fun and educational to do with them, the Lyonia Environmental Center in Deltona has them covered.
The Deltona center offers free programs for kids to learn about native plants and wildlife through outdoor hikes and other indoor activities.
All programs are free, but reservations are required at 386-789-7207, ext. #21028.
Here is the schedule for June:
Tiny Trekkers: June 3, 10-11 a.m.
Children ages 2 to 7 (and families)
Kids will listen to the book “Bee & Bird” while taking a short hike and make a take-home craft.
Critter Corner: June 3, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
All ages
Meet the center’s resident animal ambassadors and learn fun facts about them.
Saltwater Tank Feeding: June 4, 2-2:30 p.m.
Join staff at the saltwater aquarium as they feed the center’s marine animal ambassadors. Some of the menu items include krill, seaweed and shrimp. Discover which critters enjoy that menu, their unique eating methods and the important role each plays in our ecosystem.
Lyonia Photography Club: June 10, 10-11 a.m.
All skill levels
Join volunteers from West Volusia Audubon Society for this monthly program series, which includes in-class instruction and field opportunities to hone your skills photographing the many birds, reptiles and plants at Lyonia Preserve.
Summer Science Sunday: June 11, 1-2 p.m.
Ages 5 and older (and families)
LEC staff will guide participants through fun science experiments.
Secret Weapons: June 17, 10-11 a.m.
Ages 8 and up (and families)
Many insects spit, spray, sting and bite in response to being disturbed or threatened. Sometimes an insect’s physical appearance itself can be a type of self-defense. Participants will make a take-home craft as they learn about insects, scorpions, spiders and other creatures that use these tactics.
Sunday Funday: June 18, 2-2:30 p.m.
Ages 5 and older (and families)
Kids and their families can join staff members in the pavilion as they share fun facts about the sun, ultraviolet rays and the importance of wearing sun protection. Participants will make a take-home solar bead bracelet.
Slithering Saturday: June 24, 1-2 p.m.
Warmer weather can mean an increase in snake activity. LEC staff will provide an introduction to snakes, one of nature’s most misunderstood reptiles. After the presentation, participants will meet several of the center’s reptile resident animal ambassadors and learn the important role they play in the ecosystem.
Pollinator Power: June 25, 2-3:30 p.m.
Ages 7 and older (and families)
Do you like chocolate, strawberries and honey? Let’s thank the bees, butterflies, bats and birds for these delicious treats. LEC staff will explore pollination and discuss the different animals that make it happen. Afterward, the group will play games, make crafts and enjoy a pollinator themed snack.
Lyonia Environmental Center offers insights into Volusia County’s fragile ecosystems through hands-on displays and educational programs. It’s part of the Deltona Regional Library complex at 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free.
If you plan on walking through Lyonia Preserve, staff recommend wearing closed-toe shoes, bring water and be prepared to hike on sugar sand trails.