West County

Parents are invited to this free presentation and discussion on backpack safety and general health. Dr. Krystal Rupp, a chiropractic physician, will discuss appropriate weight and placement of backpacks, how to adjust straps correctly, stretching techniques for children, and offer nutrition suggestions.

6:30 p.m. at The Magic House. Registration is required.

More information: magichouse.org

Little ones can gather 'round the sugarbush for fun stories. They'll learn about maple sugaring through stories told by naturalists, and eveyone will get to taste maple syrup. Most of the program is outdoors, so dress for the weather. Recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 a.m. Free.

At Rockwoods Reservation in Wildwood.

Who hoots this time of year? Kids and teens ages 7 to 14 will learn about Missouri's owls, learn to hoot like an owl and dissect owl pellets in this joint program sponsored by the St. Louis Jr. Audubon Society and the Missouri Department of Conservation.

10 a.m. Free. 

At Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirkwood, near the intersection of I-44 and I-270. Call 314-301-1500 for reservations.

So you’ve got maple trees and you love maple syrup… join this program to learn how to develop your very own backyard maple syrup and maple sugar operation. You’ll learn to identify sugar maple trees, details of tree tapping, cooking methods and finishing your sap to syrup. Join the growing community of maple sugaring enthusiasts and gain experience in every step of the process by working with naturalists. Call 636-458-2236 for reservations. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. At Rockwoods Reservation.

Who's in the forest this time of year? Some Missouri owls stick around all year and are especially vocal during the winter months. Get together to discuss some of the owl's amazing adaptations, dissect some pellets to see what they're eating and take a hike to hear what they're saying. Dress for the weather.

Free. For ages 7 and up. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.