nature

Life can be so hectic! Slow down with your family and discover the wonders at Shaw Nature Reserve. 

Shaw Nature Reserve is teaming up with the Missouri Department of Conservation to provide a special fishing experience for first-time or inexperienced young anglers.

Equipment, bait and assistance will be provided. At least one adult should attend for every two children, and fishing is for kids only.

For ages 6 to 12. Cost is $14 per child; $12 per child for members of the Missouri Botanical Garden. Registration is required.

Join the Saint Louis Science Center and members of the St. Louis Astronomical Society for fun astronomy activities for all ages.

You can learn about telescopes and how you can begin exploring the stars on your own, and, if the weather permits, take part in solar observing near the Planetarium entrance.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All activities are free.

More information: slsc.org

Take your kids to The Butterfly House to have brunch with The Very Hungry Caterpillar! Guests will meet live caterpillars and butterflies, listen to readings of Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar book, and explore the interactive Bug Stations.

This special day will be captured with a souvenir photo with The Very Hungry Caterpillar himself!

Reservations are required and space is limited.

Birds are starting to make their way back from their winter homes, so it's time to celebrate birds by learning about their special traits. Kids can learn what makes a bird a bird, make some binoculars and go outside to spot birds in the wild.

For ages 3 to 6.

10 to 11 a.m. at Rockwoods Reservation in Wildwood. More information: mdc.mo.gov

Learn about the majestic wonders of the sky - eagles, owls, falcons, vultures and hawks, at the Masters of the Sky show taking place at the National Great Rivers Museum. 

Did your child’s school miss out on a Maple Sugar School Field Trip? No problem. Learn the history of maple sugaring, visit the sugar bush to collect sap, and learn to boil it down into syrup. Dress for the weather as the entire program is outdoors and part of the trail is not stroller accessible.

Free. 4-5:30 p.m. at Rockwoods Reservation in Wildwood. 

More information and reservations: www.mdc.mo.gov