Wee Naturalists
Welcome to Wee Naturalists
Wee Naturalists is a program specifically designed for children ages three to five; but welcomes curious and adventurous two-year-olds to join in the nature-based fun. Participants, accompanied by their guardian(s), will delight in short nature walks, stories, seasonal crafts, and occasional visits from the Arboretum’s classroom critters. Led by Arboretum environmental educators, the program introduces a whole host of nature topics that invite children to explore the natural world as well as their own interests and abilities!
Our curriculum follows a two-year program cycle, giving your child the opportunity to participate in consecutive programs, with each offering new and exciting nature-themed lessons. For that reason, all sessions feature different program materials.
Winter and Spring 2026 Programming
Registration for all Winter and Spring 2026 sessions are open!
Click the button below to register!
Winter Session: Jan. 16th – Feb. 13th
Theme: Winter Wonders
Fridays | 5 weeks
Price: $136 non-member | $123 member
Spring Session 1: Feb. 27th – Apr. 3rd
Theme: Animals with Wings
Fridays | 6 weeks
Price: $253 non-member | $147 member
Spring Session 2: Apr. 17th – May 15th
Theme: World of Water
Fridays | 5 weeks
Price: $136 non-member | $123 member
**The prices listed above reflect the base program price in addition to Eventbrite fees. See here for a breakdown of prices.**
If the program you were interested in has filled up, please fill out our waitlist form here. If spaces open up we will refer to our waitlist on a first come, first served basis.
Program Structure
- Wee Naturalists programming is held on Fridays, with both morning and afternoon sessions available.
- For morning programs, the classroom opens for independent exploration at 9:30 AM; the program begins promptly at 10:00 AM and concludes at 11:00 AM.
- For afternoon programs, the classroom opens for independent exploration at 12:00 PM; the program begins promptly at 12:30 PM and concludes at 1:30 PM.
Program Requirements
- Each registered child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. They may have up to two adults and one sibling under two years old accompany them for free. Siblings above five are not permitted to attend.
- To ensure a quality program, we ask that guardians are actively supporting and engaged with their child(ren) to help them, and others, get the most out of the activities.
- All participants should be dressed for an outdoor program and ready to explore!
At The North Carolina Arboretum, we appreciate that each child’s journey of growth and learning is uniquely their own. Our Wee Naturalists program is carefully designed to embrace the distinctive developmental stages of three to five-year olds – celebrating the blossoming imaginations of preschoolers. While the curriculum is tailored for preschool-age children, we have seen enthusiastuc toddlers thrive alongside their older peers, and we encourage enrollment of two-year-olds who are curious and ready to explore. We are dedicated to providing an experience that accommodates the diverse paths of development during these formative years. While we strive to create activities and themes that resonate with all children on their developmental journeys, we recognize that some activities may be too easy or present a more challenging adventure. We encourage you to join us in cultivating a welcoming learning space for all by practicing patience and understanding.
If, during or after our programming, you have suggestions on how we can enhance the experience for you and your child, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Your insights are invaluable, and we are committed to continuous improvement. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to embark on a journey of exploration, learning, and joy with you soon!
Wee Naturalists Cancellation Policy
Eventbrite service fees and processing fees are non-refundable. If you choose to issue a refund more than 30 days prior to the program start date, you will be refunded the full ticket price; however, Eventbrite will keep the service and processing fees. If you cancel your purchase(s) 30-11 days prior to the program start date, half the total fee is refundable. If cancellation occurs 10-0 days prior to the start date, none of the total fee is refundable.
Health and Safety Protocols
Wee Naturalists is committed to ensuring the safety of all participants by following current health guidelines from the Center of Disease Control, the North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services, the Buncombe County Department of Health, and the City of Asheville. We may update our policies on health screenings, face coverings, social distancing, and other safety measures as needed. Participants are required to adhere to all safety protocols currently in place, and following any updated guidelines; failure to comply could result in dismissal from the program.
Please email youtheducation@ncarboretum.org with any questions. You can also call Rich Preyer at (828) 412-8558 for questions about programming, or Ben Bafaloukos at 828-567-3165 for help with registration.