Join Sapa, Carpenter Nature Center’s pet bunny, from 10-11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 10 for Preschool Story Time: Bunny Buddies. This monthly family program, located at the CNC Visitor Center, introduces nature to children ages 2-5 in a fun and safe environment.

Each month the program is supported by a theme and includes “a story, an outside activity, a craft they can take home and usually a live animal,” according to CNC program director Mayme Johnson.

All children must be accompanied by a parent, grandparent or guardian. The program fee is $6 per child or $4 per child for “Friends of CNC.” There is no charge for the accompanying adult. Johnson also advises to be dressed for the weather and to call ahead at 651-4374359 to reserve a spot.

Located at 12805 Saint Croix Trail South in Hastings, the nature center has been doing Preschool Story Time at their Minnesota campus once a month for more than 20 years. Carpenter Nature Center created an additional Wisconsin campus located in Hudson, and a monthly Preschool Story Time program was implemented there in January 2023.

Next month’s Preschool Story Time is at 10 a.m. March 17, covering the topic of maple syruping.

The entrance to Carpenter Nature Center’s Visitor Center.Photo by Nerissa Solovitz

Informational sign on Sapa’s crate door. Photo by Nerissa Solovitz