Cottonwood Tales at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Cottonwood Tales brings storytelling to life at the Arboretum with interactive sessions featuring characters like O.P. the Bookworm and Miss Laurel. These monthly programs blend nature-themed stories, fingerplays, and music to engage young learners while building early literacy and math skills. Sessions run 45 minutes and take place either at the Education Center or outdoors, depending on weather—so your family gets flexibility and a chance to enjoy the gardens. Registration is required, and at least one caregiver must attend. The program costs $5 per child participant, while caregivers and any siblings pay only the standard Arboretum admission (free for ages 5 and under, $3 for ages 6–17, and $7 for adults). It's a great fit for preschool and early elementary-age children who enjoy stories and exploring nature alongside their grown-ups.