SUMMER DISCOVERY WEEKS 2025
*Registration opens for most programs Tuesday, February 4th
** Registration for Adventure on the Waterside opens on Tuesday, February 11th**
Each week is a different theme and each day a different topic. Every day, children will explore and learn about the natural world. *Some weeks have a field trip.
All summer discovery programs run from 9am-3pm. Aftercare is available until 5pm.
For aftercare pricing information please email bjaycox@sweetbriarnc.org. Aftercare must be booked the week before the program begins.
Please read before signing up:
1.Select the program you are interested in and add to your cart. (Once you click the checkout button the registration form will pop up to fill out.)
2. Please fill this out completely then complete the payment page to finalize your child(s) registration.
If paying by check/cash:
please email me at bjaycox@sweetbriarnc.org with your child’s name and what program you were looking to register your child for.*
DO NOT PAY IF YOU ARE ON THE WAITLIST*
(Payments made are all subjected to the same refund policy regardless of registration status.)
If you’d like to sign up to be a Sweetbriar Family Member, you can add it to your cart on the payment screen.
Amazing Animals
Week of July 14th- 18th
Week of August 11th- 15th
This is an immersive and educational program designed to connect children with nature, teach them about the diverse animal kingdom, and foster an understanding of environmental stewardship. Through a series of engaging outdoor activities, nature walks, and interactive learning sessions, children will explore the wonders of the natural world and learn how they can help protect it.
Ages: 6-11y
Time: 9am- 3pm
How Much: Members $350/Non-Members $400
Adventures on the Waterside
Week of July 7th- 11th
Week of July 28th- August 1st
During this week, children will go on adventures along the Nissequogue River, they will go on a stream trek to waterfalls and learn about animals and nature through guided exploration.
REGISTRATION FOR THIS PROGRAM WILL BE DIFFERENT FROM YEARS PAST. PLEASE SEE TOP OF PAGE FOR INFOMATION ON HOW TO SIGN UP.
Ages: 7 -12y
Time: 9am-3pm
How Much: Members $375/Non-Members $425
CHILDREN MUST BRING WATER SHOES AND SNEAKERS. CHILDREN WILL BE IN THE WATER EVERYDAY SO PLEASE PACK A CHANGE OF CLOTHING AND A TOWEL. CROC’S ARE NOT WATER SHOES AND WILL GET STUCK IN THE MUD AT THE RIVER.
Animal Detectives
Week of June 23rd- 27th
Week of August 18th- 22nd
This immersive program transforms children into wildlife detectives as they investigate the fascinating world of animal adaptations. Through a series of engaging activities, nature exploration, and problem-solving challenges, children will learn how different species have evolved unique traits to survive and thrive in their environments.
Ages: 9-11y
Time: 9am-3pm
How Much: Members $350 /Non-Members $400
Animal Investigators
Week of June 23rd- 27th
Week of August 18th- 22nd
In this hands-on adventure, young explorers will step into the role of wildlife investigators. They will learn how animals adapt to survive in their environments by examining clues, participating in interactive activities, and observing live animals. This program is designed to spark curiosity and encourage children to think like scientists as they uncover the secrets of animal adaptations.
Ages: 6-8y
Time: 9am-3pm
How Much: Members $350/Non-Members $400
Fantastic Furry & Feathered Friends
Week of June 30th- July 4th
Week of August 4th- 8th
This exciting and educational program invites children to explore the fascinating world of mammals and birds. Through interactive activities, guided nature walks, and up-close encounters with animal ambassadors, children will discover what makes furry and feathered animals so special.
Ages: 6-11y
Time: 9am-3pm
How Much: Members $350/Non-Members $400
Big S.T.E.A.M.er’s
Week of July 21st- 25th
This dynamic program combines the wonders of nature with the excitement of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Music) education. Children will explore the natural world through hands-on projects that incorporate scientific inquiry, technological innovation, engineering challenges, artistic creativity, and musical expression.
Ages: 9-11y
Time: 9am-3pm
How Much: Members $350/Non-Members $400
Little S.T.E.A.M.er’s
Week of July 21st- 25th
In this dynamic and engaging program, children will explore the wonders of nature through the lens of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Music). By participating in hands-on activities that blend creativity with critical thinking, young explorers will discover how these disciplines intersect with the natural world around them.
Ages: 6-8y
Time: 9am- 3pm
How Much: Members $350 /Non-Members $400
Nature Explorer’s (Ages 12y-15y)
Week of June 30th- July 4th
Week of August 4th- 8th
Teens aged 12-15 are invited to join an exciting and immersive outdoor adventure that combines exploration, physical activity, and environmental education. We will go beyond the borders of Sweetbriar to explore new frontiers i.e., kayaking the Nissequogue River, hiking the Greenbelt trail and exploring the forests, wetlands & beaches of Long Island. An overnight camp out with barbecue, campfire, and night hike brings the week to a close. This program is designed to foster a love for nature, build outdoor skills, and create lasting memories.
Ages: 12-15
Time: 9am-3pm *Some days may vary on time
How Much: Members $500/ Non-Members $540
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Wildlife Advocates:
Teen Animal Care & Education Week
Week of July 14th - 18th
Week of August 11th - 15th
Join us for an exciting week at the Nature Center, where teens aged 13-16 will dive into the world of wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, and animal education! This hands-on program blends animal care with learning how to teach natural science education to others. Participants will practice handling mammals like rabbits and hedgehogs while developing skills in educating others about their care. They'll also learn to teach about and care for reptiles, amphibians, and birds, including raptors. Each day features interactive games, outdoor adventures, and opportunities to assist in real wildlife and domestic animal care. Guided by Sweetbriar’s experienced staff, teens will gain valuable skills in both animal care and wildlife education, while connecting with nature and building confidence in presenting scientific knowledge to others.
Ages: 13-16
Time: 9:00am- 3:00pm
How Much: Members $450 / Non-Members $490