Looking for natural treasures? They’re easy to find in the winter, whether birds’ nests left behind, owls in action, or spots where deer nibble on trees. Programs at the sanctuaries and other Mass Audubon locations aim to introduce children to those unexpected treasures. “We’re so used to watching TV and the tropical rain forests, but there’s some cool stuff right here in New England,’’ said Sue MacCallum, South Shore Sanctuaries director. “It’s about getting kids excited about what’s right here in New England. It’s about getting out there and spending time outdoors when you don’t normally.’’ Youngsters can learn how animals survive the winter, search for harbor seals, call out to owls, and track animals with programs like “Nature Nut Club,’’ “Hoot and Howl,’’ and “Seals and Seashells.’’ When children explore beyond nature’s surface, Mass Audubon hopes the winter landscape becomes a little more inviting. 2000 Main St., 781-837-9400, massaudubon.org, check listings for schedules and prices.
Places for warming up to winter’s mysteries and fun
Kahuna Laguna, North Conway, N.H.
Sometimes the best winter fun is a taste of summer. With a water park heated to 82 degrees year round, Kahuna Laguna offers warm-weather fun with a three-story slide tower (two body slides, two tube slides), wave pool, super-sized hot tub, water cannons, rope bridge, and water-based basketball court. The “Little Kahuna’’ area is suited for the smallest visitors (under 48 inches) with a 9-inch-deep pool, smaller slides, water toys, and baby bouncers. There are height restrictions: 48 inches for body slides, 42-48 inches for raft slides. A snack bar and arcade make the 40,000-square-foot site a full-service fun park - all part of Red Jacket Mountain View Resort. 2251 White Mountain Highway (Rte.16), 603-356-5411, kahunalaguna.com, Monday-Thursday 3-9 p.m., Friday noon-10, Saturday 8:30-10 a.m., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 8:30-10 a.m., 11 a.m.-9, extended hours during school vacationweeksand on holidays, resort registered guests $20, nonregistered visitors $40, locals with ID $30,age 2 and under free.
Shira Springer can be reached at springer@globe.com.