2013 National Geography Bee:
 Connecticut Experiential Learning Center hosts the 2013 National Geographic Society's National Geography Bee for CT homeschoolers ages 9 - 14.

 The winner of the CELC's Bee will advance to the next level of competition, a written examination to determine state competitors. All winners are eligible to win the national championship and its first prize, a $25,000 college scholarship, at the national competition in May held in Washington, D.C.

 The public is invited to attend the bee on 11 January at the James Blackstone Memorial Library in Branford at 10:30 a.m.

In many cases, Mom does most of the work when it comes to taking care of the kids, but in some animal families that's Dad's responsibility! Come see which animal Dads are the primary caretakers, and how these animal families work!

How many different kinds of animals can you think of that lay eggs? Do all of thise eggs look the same? Come find out which animals lay eggs, and how you can tell which egg belongs to which animal!

Animal families all work differently- just like human families! Come see how animal families work when Mom's in charge!

Come find out what techniques animals use to attract a mate! Some dance, some build fancy nests, and others bring gifts!

Bring on the Birds! June 3 – 7 Join us to discover the fascinating diversity of Arizona birds. Did you know that people come from all over the world to look at birds in Arizona? Now, you will be one of them! Learn why birds sing, how they make nests, what they eat, and how far they can fly. To practice your new bird watching skills, we will be joined by a bird expert on a field trip to Gilbert Riparian Preserve. Finally, Liberty Wildlife, a bird rescue organization, will bring some of their rehabilitated education birds to teach us even more! Snacks are provided.

Desert Rainbows May 28 - 31 Explore the startling array of colors of the Sonoran Desert; you will be amazed how many you will find in the trees, wildflowers, birds, insects, and cacti. To further heighten the imagination and wonder of summer camp, we are excited to welcome back Childsplay theatre company. You will never think the desert is ‘just brown’ ever again! Snacks are provided. Campers must bring their own sack lunch. 2 classes, limited to 12 campers per class. Ages 4 - 6 / 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Miraculous Mobiles with Artist Carolina Escobar Bend wire and stretch fabric to make a hanging work of art with your family; starting with a walking tour of her contemporary artwork, Whispers of a New World, Carolina Escobar will inspire families to make art of their own. Carolina uses bright colors and shapes inspired by nature, and she will guide families in the construction of their own mobile to take home! All materials are provided. This program is geared towards families with children ages 6 – 13, but children of all ages are welcome. Price is per person. Saturday / May 25 / 9:30 a.m.

Spring Star Party Join members of the Phoenix Astronomical Society for a family friendly evening of exploring our night sky with high powered telescopes and interactive activities. Learn to identify constellations, investigate the colorful rings of Saturn, and view the largest planet in our solar system—Jupiter! This program is geared towards families with children ages 6 – 13, but children of all ages are welcome. Price is per person. Saturday / May 18 / 7:30 – 9:15 p.m. Members: $16 / General Public: $20 http://www.dbg.org/childrenprograms

Become a Hummingbird Scientist Practice being a real hummingbird scientist by learning about their colors, their behaviors, and how to identify common Phoenix species. Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly upside down and backwards; they are fast, extremely territorial, and beautifully colored. We will explore the wonders of these jewels of the sky and make our own hummingbird feeder to take home. This program is geared towards families with children ages 6 – 13, but children of all ages are welcome. Price is per person. Saturday / April 13 / 9:00 a.m.