Family Programs

NEW! Outdoor Adventures

Join us on Wednesdays in July and August for an afternoon of fun and adventure for kids and their families.
Themes will alternate between interesting insects and edible gardening each week. Every program will include a mini lesson or discussion in the Van Vleck Visitor Center as well as a hands-on activity or outdoor exploration.  Fair weather only. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dates and Topics
July 12 -Edible Gardening
July 19- Lightning Bugs
July 26 – Edible Gardening
August 2 -Ladybugs
August 9 – Edible Gardening
August 16 -Butterflies
August 23 – Edible Gardening
Time: 2:30 – 4 pm
Fee: $5 per child/class or $10 per family/class (2 or more children)

*ONLINE REGISTRATION*

Click Here

Drop-ins are welcome!  You can also register by calling 973-744-4752 ext 3, or emailing education@vanvleck.org.

Nocturnal Animals Live Animal Presentation

THURSDAY, July 20th, 7 to 8 pm – THIS PROGRAM IS FULL!

Join us for a live animal presentation by Eyes of the Wild. Learn all about nocturnal animals – where they live, what they eat, how they communicate and more. What a perfect way to spend a summer evening with your family and friends. Appropriate for children ages 3 and up; however, all are welcome. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Rain or shine.

Fee: Friends $7 per person; Others $10 per person.

All programs require a minimum number of participants so please register today! Call 973-744-4752 ext. 3, email education@vanvleck.org

Garden Exploration Saturdays

Looking for something to do on a Saturday morning? Come to Van Vleck and visit our Education Center anytime between 10 am and 1 pm. An environmental educator will discuss various topics relating to nature in and around the gardens. A simple craft will be offered, as well as supplies for a self-guided activity on the property. Everything you need to enjoy quality time with your family is here for you. Activities are designed for children ages 4 and up; however, all are welcome. All children must be supervised by an adult. Rain or shine.

Date/Topic:  Fall dates and topics coming soon!

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Fee per child: $5 per child ages 4 & up; $10 per family (2 or more children); Free for Friends of Van Vleck

Registration suggested, walk-ins welcome.  

To Register: email education@vanvleck.org or call 973-744-4752 Ext. 3

Backyard Habitat Day


Date: Exact date and time coming soon!

Join us for a day of exploring the many ways each backyard can make a difference.  Activity and learning stations will focus on creating a habitat for the birds, butterflies and animals that live here. Open to families and individuals.  Appropriate for children ages 4 and older.  Rain or shine. Pre-Registration Required

Fee: $10 per family for Friends of Van Vleck; $15 per family for others.

To Register:  Email education@vanvleck.org or call 973-744-4752

Van Vleck House & Gardens

All classes and events are held at 21 Van Vleck St., Montclair unless otherwise noted. For further information, log on to www.vanvleck.org. To register or for additional information, call 973-744-4752 or e-mail us at education@vanvleck.org. Become a Friend of Van Vleck to take advantage of special pricing for classes and events.