Children's Science Activities in Toledo, OH

Science activities abound for children in Toledo, Ohio.

Children approach the natural world much like scientists, through exploration and discovery, always seeking answers to that fundamental question of "why." With a system of parks making the region's natural areas readily accessible, coupled with an award-winning, family-friendly zoo and children's science center, Toledo, Ohio, offers abundant opportunities to engage and encourage pint-size scientists.

Imagination Station

Imagination Station's BOYO ride uses science similar to that of the yo-yo.

On the downtown waterfront, Imagination Station is a must-see destination for budding scientists. The museum features hundreds of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to teach the fundamentals of science. In the Science Studio, children can create slimy polymers, examine bugs under a microscope or explore the properties of liquid nitrogen. Experience simulated category 1 through 5 hurricanes in the not-to-be-missed Hurricane Chamber. The museum also offers monthly family engineering workshops, summer science camp for ages 7 to 12 and an overnight camp-in program for grades 2 through 6.

Metroparks Toledo Area

Oak Openings Preserve supports abundant bird life, such as these least bittern chicks.

Metroparks has preserved over 10,500 acres of natural parklands in the Toledo Area. Encompassing a wide range of ecosystems, Metroparks provide abundant opportunities for children to explore and discover the region's plants and animals. Children of all ages can participate in one of Metroparks' educational programs emphasizing outdoor, hands-on experiential learning. For the real little ones, Metroparks offers monthly "Toddler Trails" focusing on multisensory nature play and exploration. The year-round classes are free to Lucas County residents and low-cost for all others.

Toledo Botanical Garden

Toledo Botanical Garden's Aquatic Garden is a popular destination for children.

With more than 60 acres of display gardens, the Toledo Botanical Garden provides a living laboratory for children to engage in the natural world through hands-on scientific exploration and educational activities. The garden's education department offers seasonal family activities, including a scavenger hunt in which participants learn about the plants and animals found in a winter garden. Single-day classes for children ages 4 to 14 are offered throughout the summer. Soon the Toledo Botanical Garden will expand to include a children's garden and learning village. Best of all, the Toledo Botanical Garden is free to the public.

The Toledo Zoo

The Toledo Zoo was one of the first zoological parks to feature a hippoquarium.

Voted one of the top 10 family-friendly zoos in the country, Toledo Zoo is home to more than 9,000 animals representing over 800 species. Just four miles from downtown along the banks of the Maumee River, the zoo inspires and informs children about the animals of the world. "Nature's Neighborhood," the zoo's children's zoo, uses fully explorable, hands-on activities to promote learning. Children can dig for fossils in the play stream or build a giant bird nest in the forest. Workshops are offered daily at the children's zoo. Seasonal "CONSERVE-atory" programs provide more in-depth courses for children and families.

References

• City of Toledo
• Toledo Convention & Visitors Bureau: Fun Facts
• Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce: Our Community

Resources

• Imagination Station: Contact
• Metroparks of the Toledo Area: Contact
• Toledo Botanical Garden: Contact Us
• The Toledo Zoo: Contact Information