Backpack Explorers for Children
Wednesdays, 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Come on an adventure! Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers learn together through science, art, music, stories and culture with fun, hands-on activities. Explore the Museum’s nature trails and exhibitions with one of our incredible Museum educators! New themes weekly!
$15 per child. Members receive 20% discount. Non-members pay Museum admission for accompanying adult. $5 materials fee for siblings younger than 3 who participate in crafts.


December 6 – Cool Camouflage – SOLD OUT
Can you see me now? Come discover how predators and prey stay safe and unseen and create artwork to camouflage a critter!
December 13 – Winter Impressions – RSVP
Experience the beauty of winter as we use the outdoors as inspiration for artmaking. Create cards for loved ones with seasonal scenes of the High Desert.
January 3 – Critter Collage – SOLD OUT
Visit animal friends and create animal-inspired art. Explore artistic techniques and experiment with color and texture in creating masterpieces of your very own.
January 10 – Animal Builders – SOLD OUT
Dens, burrows and nests… oh my! Animals are incredible builders. Learn about the structures animals build and come build a temporary structure out of nature blocks.
January 17 – Tails and Scales – RSVP- Only a few spots left
Are reptiles as sneaky as they seem? What is the difference between a reptile and an amphibian? Explore these amazing creatures close up and through active movement.
January 24 – Snow! – RSVP
In the winter, water may fall from the sky as sleet, hail or snow. We’ll take a closer look at frozen water on the Blue Planet. Bring your warm coats and mittens!
January 31 – Storytime – RSVP
Stories can transport us to other worlds. Gather around as we act out a story and practice creating your very own tales.
February 7 – Pokey Porcupine – RSVP- Only a few spots left
With a coat of sharp quills, this High Desert creature knows how to keep predators away. We’ll take an up-close look at the life of a porcupine and hone our observation skills.
February 14 – Feathered Friends – RSVP
Flying, soaring, diving— the sky is the limit to what birds can do. Let’s look at some feathered friends and see what incredible creature features they have!
February 21 – Turtle and Tortoise Time – RSVP- Only a few spots left
What is the difference between a turtle and a tortoise? Are there any similarities? Dive into the world of shells and scutes to find out!
February 28 – Animals in Winter – RSVP- Only a few spots left
What keeps you warm at night? See how High Desert creatures, both warm and cold-blooded, stay nice and toasty the whole winter through.
Per High Desert Museum policy, no refunds can be issued. For cases of illness or emergency, with notice 24 hours before the class, a class transfer may be issued.