What is Doodlebug
Adventures?
Nature becomes the classroom for play-based learning at Doodlebug Adventures. Part structure and part wander, children ages 18 months to 8 years, along with their caregiver(s), discover the wonders of Nature and their place in it through fun, creative, outdoor activities— in a safe, supportive community. During the 8 week session, Doodlebug Adventures teaches Explorers (children) to be curious, capable, and caring learners. They develop key life skills and a love for the outdoors, all through play-based activities. An inclusive, welcoming space makes all feel valued and connected.
Choose Your Adventure!
We're thrilled to offer our classic Doodlebug Adventures program as well as host of new programs designed to spark imagination, build community, and celebrate the world around us.
Doodlebug Adventures
2026 Summer Pop-Up Classes
Join us for our special Summer Pop-Up Classes! We have 3 exciting, standalone sessions lined up to keep the wonder alive all season long. Pick one, or join us for all three—don’t miss out on the excitement!
Weaving Wisdom
NEW!
A class just for the grown-ups! Weaving Wisdom offers a beautiful space for adults to gather, encourage fellowship, and build community. Learn how to make various handmade items, including practical household goods and decorations. We focus on using easily accessible, low-cost materials—from items found around the house to treasures gathered in nature—empowering you to create while connecting with others.
Class dates and
registration coming soon!
And the fun doesn't stop there!
These complimentary sessions are a fantastic opportunity to experience the magic of Doodlebug Adventures firsthand! Come join us for a nature-based lesson to see how we guide young learners to explore, discover, and connect with the outdoors. It's the perfect way to get a taste of what Doodlebug Adventures is all about and decide if our hands-on classes are the right fit for your little explorer.
Doodlebug Adventures at Squirrel Lake Park
Bring the adventure outdoors! We're popping up at Squirrel Lake Park for spontaneous, fresh-air sessions! These casual, fun gatherings feature nature hunts, simple crafts, and playtime, making it easy to enjoy a dose of Doodlebug magic in your neighborhood. Pop Up classes will be held on the first Saturday of each month.
Park Pop-Ups
Let's celebrate! We are excited to invite you to a new series of appreciation days at Squirrel Lake Park, presented by Miss Karen and the Matthews Parks & Recreation Department! From "World Bee Day" to "National Tree Day," each month we'll feature a special appreciation day. These complimentary drop by programs offer a unique opportunity for education and the appreciation of nature, the wildlife that inhabits it, and how we can provide support when needed. The whole family (kids of all ages) can participate in these super-fun & hands-on activities, designed especially to celebrate those special days!
Doodlebug Adventures
2026 Summer Pop-Up Schedule
Summer fun is popping up at Doodlebug Adventures!
Join us for our special Summer Pop-Up Classes! We have 3 exciting, standalone sessions lined up to keep the wonder alive all season long. Pick one, or join us for all three—don’t miss out on the excitement!
Pop-Up 2
Lightning
Bug
Lantern Walk
SOLD OUT
6:30-7:30 PM
Location: Potters Market Farm
6815 Potter Rd., Matthews
Join us for our very first adventure at Potters Market Farm as we celebrate one of summer’s most magical creatures: the lightning bug!
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Discover fascinating facts about these glowing insects.
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Craft your very own custom lantern.
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Take a magical twilight walk around the farm lit by your new creations!
Pop-Up 1
Big Dino
Dig
July 8
9:30-10:30 AM
Location: Windsor Park
10140 Northeast Parkway
Step back in time and become a real paleontologist for the day! Kids will hunt for clues, master prehistoric trivia, and chip away at their very own fossil blocks. It’s a hands-on, stomp-and-roar kind of fun—and yes, they get to keep their fossil treasures!
July 23
6:30-7:30 PM
Location: Rice Rd. Park
2540 Rice Rd., Matthews
Looking for the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening outdoors? Join us for our Fairy Fun Lantern Walk!
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Create your very own beautiful, glowing lantern.
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Enjoy a magical twilight stroll around the park lit by our creations.
Pop-Up 3
Fairy Fun
Lantern
Walk
$25 per Explorer
$15 per family
(Includes one lantern; $5 per additional lantern)
$15 per family
(Includes one lantern; $5 per additional lantern)
Big Dino Dig
Lightning Bug Lantern Walk
Fairy Fun Lantern Walk
The Ultimate Summer Deal!
Why pick just one? Snag our Pop-Up Pass and unlock all 3 classes for a special bundle price of $45!
*Age of students: 18 months - 8 years (If a student falls outside the age range, please reach out, as exceptions may be considered)
*This is not a “drop off” program. Caregiver(s) must attend class with Explorer(s).
*Students per class: Minimum 3 - Maximum 15
*All classes will be held outdoors in all weather, *except severe or dangerous*-- please dress accordingly.
*Communication will happen beforehand if class needs to be canceled or rescheduled.
*Doodlebug Adventures: Refund & Transfer Policy
We want to make things as simple as possible for our families! Our policy is as follows:
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If a refund is requested before the first class of the season, families may choose between a full refund (less any processing fees or a credit toward a future season.
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If a refund is requested after the first class (but before the second class) of the season, families will receive a full credit toward a future season.
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If a refund is requested any time after the second class, families will receive a credit toward a future season for the remaining sessions in the canceled season.
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Registration is required and is not complete until the class fee is paid in full.
Ready for fun and adventure?
Register Now!
