Upcoming Events

Ages 0 – 5 years with adult companion

These exploratory hikes foster curiosity and confidence in young children. Your leader will point out seasonal changes and other natural points of interest in the parks. Hikes can be on a natural or paved path depending on location. This is a Tools to Trek program. Backpacks and front carriers are appropriate if your child is not walking.

Registration deadline: Sunday, May 3

Ages 9 – 13

Try new art skills during this fun, nature-themed crafting program. Each session will offer different options for participants to choose from, allowing them to work independently or get creative together!

Registration deadline: Sunday, May 3

All ages

Celebrate all kinds of mothers with Mother Earth herself! Kick off Mother’s Day weekend in the park with flower bouquet making, floral photo opportunities, heartfelt crafts and live music from pianist Jimmy Douglass.

Registration is requested.

Ages 7 – 11 with adult companion

While mothers savor refreshments on the back patio, children will craft a heartfelt surprise. Then, everyone will enjoy a relaxing stroll through the park, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Please register each child attending.

Registration deadline: Sunday, May 3

All ages
Rain date: Saturday, May 16

We will kick off the adventure with games, crafts and some live donkey visitors from Learning Tree Farm! Enjoy a tasty dinner from Claybourne Grille, a dessert by Ginny’s Philly Water Ice, or bring a picnic dinner. At sunset, we will settle in for a showing of 2001’s classic hit, Shrek! This event is possible thanks to a generous sponsorship from Dayton Children’s Hospital.

Ages 3 – 5 with adult companion

Let’s get moving! Children will enjoy participating in easy-to-follow song and dance videos made for preschoolers, followed by a hands-on activity that encourages movement, laughter and healthy fun!

Registration deadline: Friday, May 8

Ages 18 months – 4 years with adult companion

We will complete crafts with nature/sensory themes, read stories, play games and take short hikes in the park — all to spark a love of nature in our youngest community members! The theme for April is ‘Butterflies!’. This program is limited to one adult companion per registrant.

Registration deadline: Wednesday, May 6

Ages 6 – 9

This drop-off program is designed to give your child the opportunity to get creative! They will design a variety of projects based on a monthly theme. Outdoor activities will be included when weather permits. Sign up for one or multiple sessions.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, May 5

Ages 12 – 18

We will be planting native coneflowers to support birds. Join the OYBC Southwest Chapter! Kettering PRCA and Centerville-Washington Park District are collaborating to bring the joy of bird watching to our youth through the Ohio Young Birders Club. Light snacks are provided. Participants must become members of the Ohio Young Birders Club. The Spring session of the Southwest Chapter is hosted by the Centerville-Washington Park District.

Registration deadline: Sunday, May 10

Ages 8 – 15

Participants will assemble their hand-held boats using only natural materials (some provided, some found). Once done, participants will unleash their boats in the creek to see which boat makes it to the end! We will finish the program with some classic creeking and hiking! Wear your creek shoes!

Registration deadline: Wednesday, May 6

Ages 7 – 12

Let your creativity bloom! In this colorful class, kids will design and craft their very own bouquet of felt flowers. Using soft felt, pipe cleaners, and a little imagination, each artist will cut, twist and assemble vibrant flowers that never wilt.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, May 5

In 2007, Activity Center Park was the first location where CWPD introduced an all-access playground. And now, it’s time for a refresh! We’re excited to continue this tradition by planning a brand-new inclusive playground, coming next year. Before we begin, we want to hear from you. Join us to share your ideas, priorities and vision for this space. Your input will help shape a playground that welcomes and serves everyone in the community.

Meet at the park shelter. Hours are drop-in; come anytime between 6 and 8 p.m. In the event of rain, we will meet in the Park Headquarters conference room. If you have any questions, please contact us at 937-433-5155 or mail@cwpd.org.

Ages 18 and up

Join us on a stroll through your park! A naturalist will point out seasonal changes and discuss the wildlife we observe. Hike is on a natural path.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, May 12

All ages (stations recommended for ages 4 – 10)

Join us for an adventure in gardening! Race from station to station on our short, paved loop and at the end take home your very own seed starters for a garden of your own! What kind of garden will you plant? This is a Tools to Trek program.

Registration is requested so that we can have an accurate number of gardening supplies for participants.

Recommended for ages 8 and up

Help contribute to research by joining the naturalist on butterfly surveys. Identify and count butterflies while observing other seasonal wildlife as we stroll. No experience is necessary. Trail is approximately one mile in length on uneven terrain. This is a Tools to Trek program.

Registration deadline: Thursday, May 14