Junior Rangers is a statewide program in California State Parks for kids ages 7-12. The drop-in, free programs will be held Thursdays in the summer at Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park. Topics change weekly.

July 7 — Mission Life: The Mission Game

Play a board game set in the 18t century. Spend Spanish Real coins and roll the sheep knucklebone to determine the fate of your mission.

July 14 — Mission Life: The Art of the Missions

Look at the symbols behind the elaborate decorations of mission buildings, and design your own wall.

July 21 — Age of Sail: Ship skills

All aboard! We’ll peer into the great sailing vessels, and practice some of the jobs it took to keep them afloat. Show off your skill on your own knotboard!

July 28 — Age of Sail: Sailors & Whalers

Onshore whaling was developed along this coast in the 1850s. We’ll look at the natural history of whales and try our hands at the art of scrimshaw.

Aug. 4 — Rancho Life: Californio Kids

Work and play were both part of like for children on the ranchos of the Mexican era. Practice roping skills, play period games and make a own craft to take home.

Aug 11 —Paper Arts

Artistic traditions of Mexico and South America have developed over centuries. We’ll make bark paper paintings and colorful ramilletta ornaments.