Reading in the Wild

Story Time with Nature

Join us for Reading in the Wild, a free outdoor reading series for families with kids ages 3 to 6 years old.

Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Registration is not required.

2026 dates and themes:

  • June 24: Water–Life’s a Splash!
  • July 1: Birds–Beaks, Feet, and Feathers
  • July 8: Mammals–Mammal Mania
  • July 15: Fish are “O-fish-ally” Awesome
  • July 22: Un-Bee-lievable Pollinators
  • July 29: Reptiles and Amphibians–Scales and Tales

Programs will not include live animals, unless we happen to find some in the garden while exploring!

Join educators from the Water Center for Reading in the Wild, a free outdoor reading series for families with kids ages 3 to 6 years old. Reading in the Wild connects fun stories with nature activities. Each program begins with story time under the big willow tree, followed by outdoor exploration activities for parents and children in our native plant garden. 

We read, and your little ones explore! Sit under a tree, listen to a story, then roam around our garden to play with plants, rocks, water, soil, and more.

  • What to expect and bring:
    • Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
    • Storytime begins at 10 a.m. Self-paced, family-friendly nature activities follow. The Water Center exhibit hall will be open for exploration.
    • No registration is required.
    • Story time takes place on the lawn. A limited number of blankets and carpet squares to sit on will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Bringing your own blankets or chairs is welcome (those with chairs will be asked to sit toward the back).
    • Nature activities take place in our garden with a flat, gravel path and at picnic tables on a paved surface.
    • Some shade is available, but program areas receive a fair amount of sun in July. Water, hats and sunscreen are recommended.
    • Mosquitoes can be active in outside areas. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent just in case.
    • Food and drinks are welcome but must be enjoyed in outdoor areas. No food is permitted in the Water Center exhibit hall.
    • Please contact us at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to request accommodations.

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

The Water Center is located at 4600 S.E. Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA.