Hands-on, Portable Nature Education
Presented by Certified Texas Master Naturalists Coastal Prairie Chapter
What are WOWs?
Workshops on Wheels (WOWs) are mobile, hands-on nature and environmental science
exhibits brought directly to classrooms, libraries, and community events.
Each WOW is led by certified Texas Master Naturalist volunteers from the Coastal Prairie Chapter, trained in nature education and conservation.
WOWs are designed to inspire curiosity, encourage exploration, and foster a love of nature in learners of all ages.
[Jim Butcher & Dorothy Tran with Skins & Skulls WOW, photo by Joyce Tipton]
WOW Topics
Backyard Observation
Explore the biodiversity right outside your door!
- Backyard flora & fauna specimens
- Activities: collecting, magnifying, drawing, researching
- Discover real-world applications in science & medicine
- Explore science-related careers
Bat
Discover the mysterious world of bats!
- Echolocation, habitats, and conservation
- Hands-on materials and specimens
- Learn about native Texas bats
Bird
Get up close with our feathered friends.
- Bird skulls, bill shapes, predator vs. prey traits
- Photo “show & tell” cards with talking points
- Bird bingo game and books for exploration
Butterfly
Experience metamorphosis and migration.
- Life cycle models and Monarch migration charts
- Crafts: flip books, butterfly stamps, and puppets
- Learn about native milkweed and host plants
Enviroscape
Understand how pollution aects our environment.
- 3D watershed model with interactive activities
- Simulate rain to observe pollution runoff
- Learn about water health and conservation
Herpetology
Explore the world of turtles, frogs, lizards, snakes, and alligators!
- Discover reptile and amphibian adaptations for survival
- Learn about venomous and nonvenomous Texas snakes
- Explore books, replicas, photos and real specimens with talking points for common species
Hummingbird
Tiny birds with mighty migrations.
- Hummingbird skull, nest, and fact sheets
- Crafts: feeders, puppets, coloring activities
- Books and support materials included
Insects
Students will learn different aspects of insects:
- What is an insect? Why are they important? How can we help them?
- What do they eat? Where do they live? What sounds do they make?
- View an insect up close and participate in a “Fun Fact Fortune Teller
Native Plants & Prairie
Restore and protect native Texas landscapes.
- Learn to build native habitats
- Posters, guides, and live plant samples
- Info on native milkweed and plant sources
Native Trees
Explore native trees of Fort Bend County.
- Laminated tree slides with facts
- Specimens: bark, leaves, flowers, nuts
- Activities: leaf rubbings, mystery leaf game
Pond Life
Dive into the pond ecosystem.
- Identify pond critters and macroinvertebrates
- Use magnifiers, ID charts, and water testing
- Explore life cycles and pollution indicators
Skins & Skulls
Explore Texas mammals through real specimens.
- Interactive games and track rubbings
- Skins, skulls, scat, and tracks
- Learn about habitats and animal behavior
Soil
Discover the living world beneath your feet.
- Conservation tips and hands-on learning
- Soil ecosystems and microorganisms
- Learn about nutrient cycling and carbon storage
Brought to you by:
Certified Texas Master Naturalists, Coastal Prairie Chapter
Our members are trained volunteers who provide environmental education, habitat
restoration, and stewardship throughout the Texas Gulf Coast region.
Interested in Hosting a WOW?
WOWs are perfect for:
- Schools & Classrooms
- Libraries & Museums
- Scout & Youth Groups
- Community Events
To schedule a workshop or learn more:
To schedule a TMNCPC WOW for your event, please use the below Online WOW Schedule Form
If you have a question for the Constal Prairie Chapter, please fill out the below contact form and we will get back in touch with you.
Inspiring the next generation of naturalists, one workshop at a time.
Texas Master Naturalist – Coastal Prairie Chapter