06/27/14 jgm

Looking for something for the kids to do during the depth of summer vacation? Sign them up for the Kansas Wetlands Education Center summer programs that begin July 10 and run through July 24 at the center, 592 NE K-156 Highway, Great Bend.

Developed for children ages fourth through sixth grade, one-hour programs will be offered at no charge, with 4- to 7-year-olds meeting from 10 to 11 a.m. and 8- to 12-year-olds meeting from 2 to 3 p.m. Children age 7 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Programs include hands-on learning with trips outside weather permitting. Children should dress in old clothes and shoes and bring sunscreen, insect repellent and water.

Each program will include activities, games and a craft and sometimes a story. Programs are presented at no charge, but donations for supplies are appreciated.

"Marsh Munchies" will be Thursday, July 10: Wetlands provide food for many animals, including humans. After investigating food items provided by a marsh, children will sample some dishes featuring marsh foods and collect mint from the KWEC garden to make their own food dish.

The registration deadline is Monday, July 7.

"Flower Power" will be Thursday, July 17. Participants will explore the different flowers in the KWEC garden and fields, collect flowers, and learn how to preserve them to brighten dark winter days. Participants will make a dried flower craft.

The registration deadline is Monday, July 14.

"Caterpillar Capers" will be Thursday, July 24. Commemorating the 45th anniversary of the children's book "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," children will discover the variety of moth and butterfly caterpillars and their unique ways of protecting themselves. The day includes a "caterpillar hunt" and a caterpillar craft.

The registration deadline is Monday, July 21.

Registration is required and each class is limited to 20 students. For more information or to register, call the center at 877-243-9268.

The Kansas Wetlands Education Center is a branch of Fort Hays State University's Sternberg Museum of Natural History and serves as a gateway to Cheyenne Bottoms wetlands area near Great Bend.