Children
Summer Discovery Classes Program
UPDATE FOR DISCOVERY CLASSES 2010: Click here for Discovery Class registration . MEMBERS: Sign in first to receive your discount! Not yet a member? Please join or renew online! General registration will become available late May.
Medical/Release form must be completed and submitted by the legal guardian of every student participating in our programs.
Please check out our official summer program guide here. Discovery Classes can be found starting on page 15. You can also stop by the MMA office at 4 Vestal Street for a print copy.
How does registration work? All Discovery Class Registration is done online. The process is simple, but if you need assistance, click here.
About MMA's Summer Discovery Classes
Among the best-known education programs at the MMA is the summer Discovery program. The Discovery program has been in place for generations and each year a new group of young people enroll in the summer classes and are introduced to the delights and wonders of Nantucket’s natural world. Classes are divided by age level and activities are age-appropriate for each level.
For FAQs about our Discovery Classes, as well as other parent resources and documents, click here.
The Wee Explorers program (ages 4 – 6) provides your children with their first peek at Nantucket’s natural world. Each Discovery Class balances play, art, sensory exploration and hands-on learning. Wee Explorers will create art, play nature games, hear stories and explore in the local habitats. We offer full week, 3 day and 2 day programs to fit your schedule and your child’s.
Habitat Hoppers' children (ages 7-9) will discover the unique habitats of Nantucket and the interesting creatures that inhabit them. Hands-on activities, games, projects and active observation will keep your child excited and interested! They will gain an understanding and appreciation of the natural world around them.
Eco-Investigators (ages 10-12) will experience local ecological research through active participation. They will be
introduced to environmental stewardship, and discover ways to help with local issues. Adventure activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, and hiking engage and educate Eco-Investigators.
The Naturalist-In-Training (N.I.T.) program offers children ages 11-17 a structured, hands-on learning experience
at the MMA Aquarium, Natural Science Museum, Observatories, and
Education Programs. It is both an education program and a volunteer training program. The N.I.T. program focuses on teaching participants
about Nantucket's natural world while encouraging skills associated
with animal care, public speaking, and scientific research. Each
Naturalist in Training gains a well rounded experience by
working in all MMA facilities. This is a great opportunity for young adults to develop leadership
skills, experience the workplace and cultivate personal growth. Click here to learn more!
School-based Programs
The MMA education and program staff work closely with teachers in the Nantucket schools to develop science curriculum units and lesson plans, with a particular emphasis on using Nantucket Island as an outdoor classroom. MMA staff and Nantucket teachers collaborate with other island organizations to create field trips and hands-on learning experience that link scientific principles to real world examples drawn from the natural world of Nantucket.
Home schoolers, preschools and private kindergartens also benefit from the scientific and teaching expertise of the MMA staff. Programs and activities are designed to meet the age level of the children and the learning goals established by the teachers.
After-School/Vacation Activities
MMA offers a variety of after-school and vacation activities for children.
Outdoor exploration activities abound during school vacation weeks and on early release days. From looking for vernal pools to examining weather systems and studying the hibernation techniques of different animals, MMA provides multiple opportunities to learn-by-doing when school is not in session.
MMA staff offer regularly scheduled programs and field trips with the Nantucket Boys and Girls Club. These programs supplement classroom-based science units with indepth look at topics such as gravity, animal life-cycles, and star formation.
Off-island Schools and Children’s Groups
MMA can work with your school, scout, or children’s group to design an environmental education program that reinforces curriculum, acquires experience toward a merit badge, and/or provides a service learning opportunity connecting science education to environmental understanding. For more information, click here.
