Little Wings Outdoor Play Area
Little Wings outdoor natural playground is designed to ignite creative, outdoor play. It was created in honor and memory of Helen Dicke-Krivacek, a foundational member and long-time volunteer at Woodland Dunes. Little Wings is located in front of the nature center and is open from dawn until dusk. Features include:
- Flowing Stream – search for water critters, splash, and play!
- Nature Art and Music Area – play the natural musical instruments and create!
- Prairie Maze – scurry through the maze like a mouse observing insects and flowers!
- Mulberry Bridge – climb the stairs, explore, and taste the mulberries from the tree!
- Happy Hideaway – take advantage of the kid-sized house for imaginative play!
Benches and a raised deck are available for parents and chaperones to relax as children explore or have a picnic. Supervision is not provided, please be responsible and keep track of your children in this area.
Little Wings Indoor Education Room
The Little Wings Indoor Education Room is designed to allow nature to be explored regardless of the weather. Adults can enjoy comfy seating options while children and the young at heart can explore various nature activities in a safe and welcoming indoor environment. Features include:
- Nature Library – take a seat on a bean bag chair and read a nature story
- Puppet Theater – use your imagination to put on an animal puppet show!
- Chickadee Landing – use binoculars and bird ID books to see who is visiting the bird feeders
- Craft Area – color and construct seasonal crafts
- Science Station – get a closer look at natural items under the microscopes
- Touch Table – explore natural items
- Turtles – Say hello to our turtle-y awesome education turtles Sheldon & Sergio!
Looking for even more fun for your family? Check out an Adventure Backpack from the indoor education room!
Each backpack is full of activities that are easy to do and enhance the time you spend in the preserve. In winter learn about tracks and bird nests; in summer look for local birds. Pond dipping kits are available to check out to explore the pond near the Nature Center. The backpack is free to use, just talk to a Nature Center employee when you arrive for details. Other tools for outdoor exploration are available for free for visitors to use (talk to the person at the front desk for more details). Items include binoculars, insect nets, and more!
