Our After School Programs

Beyond our preschool programs, we offer a variety of after school programs during the year for children in Pre-K through Middle School. These programs allow children of different ages to explore nature and interact with our animals. Each program has a unique structure that is tailored to the age of children participating.

Water Ecology

  • NEW PROGRAM
  • For Grades 5 - 7
  • Offered on Thursdays


Animal Encounters

  • For Grades K - 1
  • Offered on Tuesdays and Fridays

Animal Caretakers

  • For Grades 2 - 6
  • Offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays

Outdoor Explorers

  • For Grades Pre-K - 1 (must be 5 years old to participate)
  • Offered on Mondays and Wednesdays

Out in the Wild

  • For Grades 2 - 6
  • Offered on Thursdays

Geology Rocks

  • For Middle School students
  • Offered on Tuesdays


ALL NEW: Water Ecology

Upcoming Session Dates: October 19, 26, November 2
Grades 5 - 7

In this new 3-part after-school STEM program for grades 5 - 7. Students will learn about the plants, animals and health of Cherry Lawn pond. This class includes identifying pond species, testing the water and understanding the impacts of human activity on our waterways. See more information...

Day Time Price
Thursdays 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM $162

Animal Encounters

Fall 2023 Session: September 18 - December 15, 2023
Grades K -1

Similar to our Animal Caretakers Club program, but tailored to a younger audience! Children will spend the hour mostly outdoors, with each class focusing on one animal. This is a real “hands-on” opportunity for kids who are particularly interested in animal life.

Day Time Price
Tuesdays 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM $432 (FULL)
Fridays 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM $432 (FULL)

Animal Caretakers Club

Fall 2023 Session: September 18 - December 15, 2023
Grades 2 - 6

Chopping salads, cleaning habitats and exercising animals are all among the duties of the members of the Animal Caretakers Club. Students will learn about the 20 resident species of the Nature Center, and what is required to keep each happy and healthy.

Day Time Price
Mondays 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM $432 (FULL)
Wednesdays 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM $432 (FULL)
Thursdays 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM $432 (FULL)

Outdoor Explorers

October Session Dates: Mondays (Oct 16, 23, 30)
or Wednesdays (Oct 18, 25, Nov 1)
Grades Pre-K - 1 (must be 5 years old to participate)

Are you ready to suit up, grab your gear, and head to the Darien Nature Center for an afternoon exploring the great outdoors? Each week of this 3-part monthly series will be full of fun and learning in nature. Each month will have a different theme, but all sessions will include hikes, games, exploration, science experiments, stories, and campfires!

Day Time Price
Mondays 3:30 - 5:00 PM $162
Wednesdays 3:30 - 5:00 PM $162

Out in the Wild

Current Session Dates: September 21, 28, October 5, 12, 19, 2023
Grades 2 - 6 (Now offered to 6th graders!)

After another successful year, Will Heyne is back to lead our popular Out in the Wild program focusing on survival skills!


This five-week course is for young adventurers in grades 2-5, where they will learn outdoor cooking, building shelters, fire safety, knot tying, orienteering, cooperative games, and explore the stream, woods, and pond of Cherry Lawn Park. Get ready for a great adventure!

Date Time Price
Thursdays 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM $270 (FULL)

Geology Rocks

Session Dates: TBD

The Darien Nature Center is offering a four-part STEM program to Middle School students to investigate the Earth through the lens of Geology.


If the history of the earth happened in 24 hours, humans have only been around in the last second! How do we know this? Learn how rocks and fossils give clues to the history of our planet. Join Geologist Caroline Cone at the Darien Nature Center to explore rocks, fossils, deep time, and natural hazards.

Day Time Price
Tuesdays 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM $216

If you have any questions, please review the FAQ section below, then email registration@dariennaturecenter.org or call us at 203-655-7459.

After School FAQs

  • Is a membership required to enroll in after school programs?

    A membership is required for Animal Encounters and Animal Caretakers Club. 


    We do not require a membership for Outdoor Explorers, Out in the Wild, or Geology Rocks.

  • How can I be added to the waitlist?

    If your preferred program is not available, you can be added to the waitlist by emailing registration@dariennaturecenter.org with your request.

  • What forms are required for after school programs?

    Please review our Mandatory Forms page for information regarding specific enrollment and medical forms required for each program. 

  • What should my child bring to their program?

    Most of our after school programs include an outdoor portion. Please bring appropriate clothing for the weather. 

    Children are welcome to bring labelled water bottles. However, no food or snacks please, some of our students have allergies.

  • Where should I drop off and pick up my child?

    All after school programs drop off and pick up at the front door of the main building. If you choose to walk your child inside, please do not leave your car unattended in the fire circle. Thank you.

  • What is our after school program refund policy?

    After School Refund Policy: If you choose to withdraw your child for any reason, the Darien Nature Center must be notified of a cancellation two (2) weeks prior to the start of a program to receive a refund. If and when your child’s space can be filled, then 75% of the program fee will be refunded. If the space cannot be filled, then 50% of the program fee will be refunded. There are no refunds for withdrawals made within two (2) weeks of a program start date.