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Lussier Family Heritage Center

Lil' Explorers

Calling all curious preschool adventurers! Our Lil’ Explorers program is your child’s ticket to discovering the wonders of the natural world. Join us at the Lussier Family Heritage Center, where every day is a new opportunity to marvel at and explore the world around us.

Explore our Lil' Explorers Adventures and Storytime programs below, and don’t forget to check our Event Calendar for dates and details!

 

Adventures: Discover, Play, and Learn

Starting in 2025, our Lil’ Explorers Adventures program is transitioning from a "sign up by date" style event into an exciting session-based format. With 5 fun-filled classes over 10 weeks, each adventure invites young explorers to discover the beauty of nature through hands-on activities and engaging discoveries at the Lussier Family Heritage Center. Please note, we will no longer accept drop-ins for this program. 

During each class, your child will engage all five senses to explore the outdoors, stay active, and develop teamwork skills through a 90-minute guided program with themed activities, games, guided walks, crafts, stories, and more! 

Check our event calendar to see when the next session starts! 

What to Bring:

  • Dress your child for outdoor play in all weather conditions.
  • Pack water and a snack to keep them energized.

Weather Updates:
Our adventures are weather-dependent. In the event of extreme weather, we’ll notify you the night before via email and post updates on our website at least an hour before the program.

 

Storytime: Tales Under the Oak Tree

Gather under the heritage oak tree at the Lussier Family Heritage Center for storytime inspired by the wonders of the natural world! Enjoy delightful tales with staff from the Lussier Center and the Dane County Library System, followed by a fun craft or activity to bring the story to life.

Each Storytime also includes a visit from th Library's Dream Bus so your little ones can explore the magic of books even further. Storytime alternates weekly between English and Spanish, making it an inclusive experience for all families.

What to Bring:
Feel free to bring blankets, chairs, snacks, and anything else to ensure a cozy and enjoyable experience.

Note:
This free program requires adult chaperones to stay with their children. In case of inclement weather, storytime will move indoors to keep the fun going!

All of our Lil’ Explorers programs follow the National American Association for Environmental Education guidelines for excellence for early childhood education. This includes research and overview done by organizations and individuals across the country. These guidelines include recommendations on developing programs that encompass tools and goals to encourage the growth of youth, particularly ages 3-6 years, toward becoming “environmentally responsive youth and adults.” (Simmons et al., 2016)