Unhinged Jaws

Many people think snakes are creepy, but statistically, the fear of public speaking is a more widespread phobia — that’s irrefutable mathematical evidence that giving a speech is way more scary than Snakes Alive, a cool educational program for kids at the Ernie Miller Nature Center (909 North Kansas Highway 7 in Olathe, 913-764-7759). At 2 p.m., kids can meet live Kansas snakes and learn about these deadly, venomous creatures that strike from the shadows, killing anyone unlucky enough to stray too close. There will also be some talk about snakes of the nonlethal variety. The program costs $1.75 a person; kids 2 and younger are admitted free.— Chris Packham

Ernie Miller Nature Center

Sun., Feb. 10, 2 p.m., 2008