Summer Fun for Kids at Extension!
Need to keep children busy when school is out?
We have options to keep youth engaged and entertained, while learning new skills and socializing with others.
Junior Extension Master Naturalist
Wild Kids! Summer Program
Kids can explore and discover the natural environment of Johnson County with fun, hands-on experiences, part of our Junior Extension Master Naturalist program! Each camp will focus on different aspects of nature and teach youngsters about animals, insects, trees and more.
(Ages 8-11; Class fee: $5)
How to Read Nature: Saturday, June 8, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Kill Creek Park | Register Here
Wildlife & Habitats: Saturday, June 22, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Ernie Miller Nature Center | Register Here
Rocks & Fossils: Saturday, July 13, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Lake Olathe | Register Here
The Importance of Water: Saturday, July 27, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Millcreek Streamway Park | Register Here
Trees & Me: Saturday, August 10, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Overland Park Arboretum | Register Here
Kids' Gardening Workshop
Saturday, June 8, 2024 | 1 PM - 3 PM
This gardening workshop is suitable for 8-11 year olds, as well as Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts working on their Gardening Merit Badges. Learn gardening basics, visit a demonstration garden, design a butterfly garden, and more, hosted by Extension Master Gardeners. (Class fee: $8) Register Here
Food, Fun, and Fitness Camp at Shawnee Civic Centre
Monday, June 10 through Thursday, June 13 | 9 AM - 12 PM daily
Location: Shawnee Civic Centre
Hop, skip, jump, and run for a week of food, fitness and fun! Learn about healthy lifestyles like good nutrition and physical activity. We will make a new recipes and engage in hands-on activities that promote lifelong healthy habits. (Ages 7-12; Camp fee is $25). Register Here
Wonders of Discovery
Friday, June 21, 2024 | 9 AM - 2 PM
Location: Pollinator Prairie, Olathe
Extension Master Naturalists host this free event each year to celebrate the wonders of pollination, in conjunction with National Pollinator Week. Located at the Pollinator Prairie in Olathe. Includes activities and educational sessions on pollinators, native plants, birds of prey, bats, and more. (All ages; Free event) Learn more
Nature Camp
June 24-27, 2024 | 9 AM - 11 AM
Location: Wilder Bluff, Shawnee
Get out into the wild and explore with 4-H. Campers will explore Wilder Bluff Park and have fun learning about Entomology and Forestry from nature experts. Come dressed to get dirty and explore in nature while making new friends. Snacks will be provided each day. (Ages 7-12; Camp fee: $25) Register Here
Kids in the Kitchen Summer Camps
Location: Extension office in Olathe
Campers will learn new skills in the kitchen and then enjoy tasting the results.
Two sessions will offer slightly different content by age group.
Session 1: June 25-27, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Ages 7-10; Class fee: $50. Register Here
Session 2: July 9-11, 2024 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Ages 11-15; Class fee: $50. Register Here
Volunteer on Tuesday mornings in the Sunset Community Garden
Tuesday mornings (weather permitting)
Location: Sunset Community Garden, Olathe, KS
Bring the littles and help together as a family in the Sunset Community Garden, located between the Sunset Drive Office Building and the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment in Olathe. We can always use extra sets of hands with planting seeds, watering, weeding, and harvesting. Learn and grow together! Learn more
4-H Leadership Day Camp
Monday, July 8, 2024 | 1 - 5 PM
Location: Extension Office, Olathe
The Johnson County 4-H Ambassadors are hosting a Leadership Day Camp offered for all youth to engage in fun activities and games that will build leadership and teamwork skills. A $15 registration fee will cover material costs and snacks. Space is limited! (Ages 8-12; 4-H'ers and all youth welcome! Register Here
Johnson County Fair
July 28-August 3, 2024
Location: Gardner, KS
Johnson County 4-H'ers will show projects and livestock at the fair. There's lots of fun for everyone: take in the sights and smells at the livestock pavilion, watch the parade, enjoy the carnival, and stop by the 4-H Food Stand for a snack. Learn more
Suddenly in Charge
Suddenly in Charge is designed to help teens and tweens with their roles in taking care of younger children.
Check out this free website, full of resources including tips for water and pet safety, fun activities, and how-to guides, like creating a fire safety plan.
