Young children are naturally curious. Encourage their curiosity through fun and interactive introductions to nature in our Tadpole Time programs! Each month at McCloud Nature Park and W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park, we will focus on a different topic and feature native animals, stories, crafts, nature exploration, and ideas for continuing exploration at home!  

Recommended for ages 2-5 years old with parent/guardian (older siblings ages 6-7 are welcome to register also if they want to participate). 

Only $5 per child! Advance registration is required. For any questions or assistance with registration, please email mccloudnp@hcparks.net or call (765) 676-5437.

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August: Seek at the Creek

• Wednesday, Aug. 20, 10 a.m. at McCloud Nature Park
• Thursday, Aug. 21, 10 a.m. at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park

Does your kiddo pick up every rock they see or love splashing around in the water? We’ll have a blast doing just that! We’ll go to the creek and see what critters, rocks, and shells we can find! Or sit back and have a splash. Please dress for getting wet in the creek, including closed-toe shoes they can use in the water. A change of clothes for after the program is also recommended.

Advance registration required by Aug. 13.

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September: Geology Rocks!

• Wednesday, Sept. 10, 10 a.m. at McCloud Nature Park
• Thursday, Sept. 11, 10 a.m. at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park

Get ready to rock your little one’s world at Tadpole Time: Geology Rocks! This hands-on program introduces young explorers to the fascinating geology of Indiana through stories, songs, and interactive activities. From dazzling geodes to ancient fossils, we’ll uncover the secrets hidden in our state’s stones—then head outside for a short hike to discover what treasures might be lying beneath our feet.

Advance registration required by Sept. 3.

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October: Fall Forest Fun!

• Wednesday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m. at McCloud Nature Park
• Thursday, Oct. 9, 10 a.m. at W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park

Delight in the magic of the season during Tadpole Time: Fall Forest Fun! This gentle, nature-filled adventure invites young explorers to collect colorful leaves, observe how the forest is changing, and discover the wonders hiding under autumn’s golden canopy. With stories and hands-on exploration, it’s a cozy celebration of fall that’s perfect for little nature lovers and their grown-ups.

Advance registration required by Oct. 1. 

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