Information for Families
We periodically offer activities for youth and families to engage with nature and learn about birds and science to help inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Check out our upcoming events to look for family-friendly opportunities or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated. We have also partnered with groups such as the Boys & Girls Club, Scouts, and more to engage children with nature outings and hands-on science activities.
Below is a list of some of our family and youth activities and resources:
Below is a list of some of our family and youth activities and resources:
Kids Bird Book Recommendations
A list of children's books focusing on birds and nature, including information books, poetry, and fiction. Several are linked to blog posts that go into further depth about the book. Burrowing Owl Game of Life
This printable interactive card game is recommended for 5th grade and up. Students simulate the life stages of Burrowing Owls and learn about the many challenges they face. English and Spanish versions are available below. SFBBO Burrowing Owl Game of Life (PDF) | El juego de la vida del Búho de Madriguera (PDF) Birdy Hour Speaker Series & Science Talks
Many of our virtual science talks are accessible to older kids and advanced learners to get introduced to a wide variety of topics related to birds and conservation. |
Art Workshops
We have hosted free bird drawing workshops with John Muir Laws that are great for all ages. Kids Bird Art Contest
We invite kids ages 3-17 to observe birds in nature and create a drawing that reflects that encounter. Volunteering
Families and students often volunteer with us to gain field experience, help birds and the environment, and earn community service hours. |
Family Science Events
We have offered family science events that engage kids ages 6 to 12 and their families in avian conservation through hands-on crafts and science activities. We have partnered with libraries, schools, and youth groups such as Scouts and Boys and Girls Clubs to offer these programs. Check out our upcoming events to look for free public programs, and explore some of our past virtual activities for families:
We have offered family science events that engage kids ages 6 to 12 and their families in avian conservation through hands-on crafts and science activities. We have partnered with libraries, schools, and youth groups such as Scouts and Boys and Girls Clubs to offer these programs. Check out our upcoming events to look for free public programs, and explore some of our past virtual activities for families:
- Family Science: Bird Banding with San Jose Public Library, 2020
- Bird Scavenger Hunt with opening event and closing event for the Bay Area Science Festival, 2020
- Migratory Bird Scavenger Hunt and event with wildlife photographer Jeff Young for World Migratory Bird Day, 2021
Ask a Scientist
In 2020, we covered a different topic each week on social media and invited people to ask questions, and many families engaged with us. Check out the different topics and some of the answers to people's questions.
In 2020, we covered a different topic each week on social media and invited people to ask questions, and many families engaged with us. Check out the different topics and some of the answers to people's questions.
Thank you to supporters for making our youth and family programs possible. Funding for our programs in recent years has come from the Applied Materials Foundation, Cargill, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Swantz Family Foundation, and individual donors. If you'd like to support our efforts, please consider donating so we can continue engaging kids and their families with birds and science!