Ernie Miller Nature Center series offers educational, intergenerational fun in Olathe

Sunday afternoons this time of year are special for Shari DeMato.

That’s when DeMato departs her Edwardsville home, swings by Bonner Springs to pick up her mother, then heads to pick up any available great-nephews and great-nieces.

They’re all bound for the Sunday Family Series at Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe.

The series is a weekly 45-minute program presented by park naturalists, park police officers and volunteers. It’s designed to be entertaining, educational and intergenerational.

DeMato and her family have been loyal attendees.

“It’s just a wonderful, wonderful program,” DeMato said. “I think it’s fabulous that they give families something to do on a Sunday. Kids have a lot of energy in the winter and they are looking for something to do.”

DeMato said her usual crew includes great-nephews 5-year-old Lukas from Bonner Springs, and 2-year-old Jamison from Basehor.

“But we have had up to seven at various times,” DeMato said. “It just depends who can make it.”

The Sunday Family series has been offered weekly each January and February at Ernie Miller since 1998, said Andrea Joslin, outdoor education manager with the Johnson County Park & Recreation District.

“It’s a really good winter program for us,” she said. “Families need something in the winter and Sunday afternoons are a good time to do it.”

Joslin said most of the program takes place indoors. But, she said, there are always opportunities to go outside at the center — even just to take a hike.

Ernie Miller is a popular field trip destination for students in Johnson County, which Joslin hopes spurs interest in the Sunday series.

“We encourage the kids to come back and bring their families,” Joslin said.

The series this year includes topics such as Predators on the Prowl, where participants learn about what predators do live and don’t live in our area, plus what to do in an encounter.

At Kansas Symbols program, participants will learn about the state’s natural symbols.

Of course, there are always live animals.

Joslin said the Sunday programs often showcase staff’s interest and expertise.

“It’s a chance for the staff to share special interest and knowledge,” Joslin said.

For example, Joslin said an upcoming dinosaur program will be presented by MC Rose, a naturalist with a geology degree.

“We plan for intergenerational groups as best we can,” Joslin said. “We have good information for adults and kids, but it’s interactive for the kids to keep them moving and keep their interest.”

The Sunday Family Series at Ernie Miller Center costs $5 per person.

For more information about programs at the center go to jcprd.com/calendar.

This story was originally published January 17, 2025 at 5:00 AM.