Do you recall when kids loved to play outside? A Walk in the Woods is an environmental educational company that introduces children and teenagers to nature’s wonders. Its hands-on science programs are like a traveling museum in that they are conveniently brought to you. Locations and groups it services include schools, home schools, preschools, after school programs, summer camps, churches, 4-H, scouts and libraries and events such as festivals and birthday parties.

The science programs are presented by Concord resident and founder Melody Bell Wilkes, who worked as a wildlife museum curator and naturalist for more than 20 years. Wilkes’ long list of environmental certifications include Master Gardener and avian, freshwater fish, reptile and small mammal specialist.

Science programs offered

Her programs includes a colorful Power Point presentation, hands-on artifacts (examples include snake skin, animal pelts and alligator skulls), interactive educational displays and live animals for touching. Wilkes estimates she teaches roughly 10,000 North Carolina participants each year. Participants have learned about sea turtles, reptiles, insects, bats, local wildlife, tropical rainforests, coral reefs and more. Perhaps more importantly, the programs are fun and spark interest in the great outdoors. Wilkes offers several themes and programs can be tailored to meet particular needs.