In the heart of the U.S. is a state, called Illinois, often known as the "Prairie State". Here, it is as if Mother Nature has her own special paintbrush, changing the scenery with every season. From the twinkling snow of Chicago winters to the golden hues of the Harvest season, Illinois is a beauty to behold. Now, imagine a group of children from this very state who have embarked on a curious adventure, not into a magic forest or a fairy land, but into the humble, messy, utterly magnificent world of gardening. These are the Green Thumb Squad of Illinois, a team of young soil samurais, tackling any weed that dares to pop its head up and whispering sweet compliments to the tomato plants to get them to blush a rosy red. Their leader is none other than the legendary Sir Shovel-a-Lot, a garden gnome with a bright blue hat and a twinkle in his eye that outshines the morning dew. Sir Shovel-a-Lot, with his magical shovel, guides the Green Thumb Squad, teaching them the secrets of the earth and the stories of every seed. He makes the tough work of gardening giggle-worthy, making funny faces when he digs up earthworms and narrating hilarious tales of battling 'evil' garden pests. So, if you ever find yourself in Illinois, keep an eye out for the Green Thumb Squad and their magical garden, where laughter grows like a sunflower in the sunshine and where every child learns that with a seed of hope and a dash of fun, miracles can bloom beneath their very hands.
Read morebest gardening programs in Crystal Lake, IL
Swift Nature Camp is the perfect place for your child to spend their summer! Our overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 is located in beautiful Wisconsin. We offer a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities and environmental education to help kids increase their appreciation for nature, science, and the environment. We’ve got it all – fun, friendships, adventure trips, and nature! Spend your summer with us – you’ll never forget it!
Preserving open space helps to maintain the beauty of nature and provide much-needed serenity and solitude. Keeping natural areas free from development can help protect plants and wildlife, and help to ensure clean air and drinking water for our communities. Taking action to support areas of outdoor recreation can offer families and individuals the opportunity to enjoy activities such as hiking, bicycling, cross-country skiing, fishing, and other forms of entertainment. It's also important to provide outdoor and environmental education for people of all ages, as it can help foster an appreciation for the environment.
At Primrose Farm, operated by the St. Charles Park District, visiting is always FREE! Take a leisurely stroll around the farmyard to meet the animal friends, including Jersey Cows, Belgian Draft Horses, Shropshire Sheep, and Nigerian Dwarf Goats. Don’t forget to explore the farm buildings to learn about their history. And if you’re looking for a more active outing, there are plenty of multi-use trails perfect for walking, biking, and more. Head to Primrose Farm for a fun, free outing with the whole family! Greet the friendly animal friends, like the Jersey Cows, Belgian Draft Horses, Shropshire Sheep, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, and more. Then, take a tour of the farm buildings to learn about their history. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk or bike ride on the multi-use trails. It’s a great way to spend the day!
Are you looking for a fun day out with the family? Look no further than the Pioneer Farm! The snow has created a stunning landscape that's perfect for a day of exploration and adventure. Plus, all the animals are looking for some extra love and attention - it's sure to be a hit with the kids! The farm is open from 9am to 3pm, so don't miss your chance to see it all! At the Pioneer Farm, you and your family can enjoy a day of fun and adventure. The snow has created a picture-perfect setting for exploring, and the animals are all snuggled up and waiting for some attention from the little ones. So, if you're looking for a great time, come check us out! We're open from 9am to 3pm, so don't miss your chance to see all the beauty and wonders of the Pioneer Farm.
The Talking Farm is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2006 with a goal of connecting communities to the benefits of a healthy local food system. Today, they are achieving this goal in a variety of ways, from producing, distributing, and selling locally grown, nutritious food to teaching communities about sustainability, urban agriculture, horticulture, and biodiversity. The Howard Street Farm in Skokie, Illinois is the site for their 2.5-acre urban farm project. In the past decade, The Talking Farm has provided over 12 comprehensive, hands-on educational programs and over 3,000 learning hours at the Howard Street Farm. In addition, they have distributed over 21,000 pounds of locally grown produce to the community and have plans to distribute over 60,000 pounds by 2022. With the help of generous donations, The Talking Farm hopes to continue to expand the Howard Street Farm to include 2.5-acres of growing fields, edible woodlands, fruit and nut trees, a Greenhouse, and a Welcome Center that doubles as an indoor learning space.
The Glenview Park District is a unique governing body, separate from the Village of Glenview. For nearly a century, the Park District has met the recreational and open space needs of the community through collaboration and cooperation with various governmental entities and community organizations. The Park District is dedicated to creating a harmonious and healthy community in which everyone can appreciate the environment and experience happiness and good health each day. The Glenview Park District has a long history of serving the local community. Its independence from the Village of Glenview makes it a unique governing body. Through its relationships with other governmental bodies and community organizations, it has been able to meet the recreation and open space needs of the community for almost a hundred years. The Park District is devoted to maintaining a supportive and healthy community in which all residents can find joy and well-being, and have a deep admiration for the environment. This mission is at the heart of its purpose and drives its activities each day. The Glenview Park District is an integral part of the community, providing recreational opportunities and access to open spaces for the last hundred years. Its independence and collaborations with other governing bodies and organizations have enabled it to meet the needs of the community. Above all else, it seeks to create an environment of health, happiness, and respect for the environment for everyone.
The Park District and Park Foundation are collaborating to ensure that all park district residents have access to the recreational programs. To this end, assistance is provided to those facing financial hardship. This program is available to all who live in the park district boundaries and are in need of assistance. Individuals who have special medical, physical, psychological, and/or emotional needs or receive special services from the school district are also encouraged to reach out to the Park District. The staff at Lincolnway Special Recreation Association will work with the Park District to provide reasonable accommodations to participants with disabilities. Participants who would like to request inclusion services are asked to complete the appropriate forms provided by the Park District.
At Angelic Organics Learning Center, we believe that building sustainable local food and farm systems is key to creating a better future for our children. We work in collaboration with rural and urban people to create experiential education and training programs that enable communities to foster strong partnerships between farmers and consumers. Our goal is to create a system that respects the land and honors the people who work it, provides healthy food access as a human right, celebrates the beauty and mysteries of life and the living earth, encourages self-reliance and cooperation, and is sustainable for many generations to come. With our commitment to sustainable farming practices, we hope to ensure a brighter future for our children.
The park system in Joliet had its start in 1899 when the City of Joliet purchased West Park (40 acres) and Highland Park (45 acres). These two parks served as the foundation for what is now the Joliet Park District. In 1920, the district was gifted 327 acres from the late Robert Pilcher, which were purchased from Harlow Higginbotham. This land is now known as Pilcher Park and is a great addition to the park district. The Joliet Park District has come a long way from the purchase of West Park and Highland Park in 1899, to the addition of Pilcher Park in 1920. It is now a thriving park system enjoyed by many local families.
At Culture, Arts & Music (CAM), we know just how amazing people around the world are! We strive to make sure that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience and learn from all these amazing people. That’s why we take the time to bring together some incredible talent from around the country and the world. From steel bands to Trinidadian schools, Brasilian jazz trios to local artists, we’re always looking for the next way to immerse you in a diverse learning experience. At CAM, we’re committed to helping you benefit from the unbelievable diversity of the world. We go out of our way to bring you the most unique and interesting people from around the globe. Whether it’s steel bands, schools from Trinidad, Brasilian jazz trios, or local artists, our goal is to help you explore the world and all its amazing people. Through our immersive learning experiences, you can experience the world’s diversity from the comfort of your own home!
Camp Widjiwagan, located six miles south of Springfield, is the perfect destination for your family’s next adventure! This 67-acre camp facility features a 40-foot climbing tower and zip line, three main lodges, an in-ground swimming pool, lake access for boating, platform tents, covered wagons, and an arts and crafts shack. Parents, you can rest assured that your kids are in good hands at Camp Widjiwagan. Every activity is carefully supervised and the facility is American Camp Association (ACA) accredited. Swimming, canoeing, creative arts, outdoor living skills, archery, and environmental education are just some of the exciting programming on offer. Make memories that will last a lifetime at Camp Widjiwagan! With its stunning location on Lake Springfield and plethora of activities, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.
At Countryside Flower Shop & Nursery, our mission is to make it easy for you to bring out the best of nature in your life. We offer an abundance of options for the accomplished master gardener or the busy property owner, eager to show off their homes and businesses with beautiful décor and landscapes. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you bring your ideas to life, with an inventory of products and services that is sure to make your dreams come true.
Bring the whole family to discover how to love and care for trees at the Morton Arboretum! With 16 miles of hiking trails and nine miles of driving and biking roads, there's something for everyone. Kids can learn about the diverse collection of trees from around the world while enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes. And you can be sure to find plenty of educational activities to keep them entertained. Open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to sunset, the Arboretum is the perfect place to spend a day or more outdoors. The Arboretum is also committed to protecting and preserving our environment. They conduct leading scientific research on tree health and improvement and collaborate with organizations throughout the region and around the world to ensure trees thrive. By visiting the Arboretum, you can be part of a greater effort to plant and conserve trees for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. Make sure to check out the Arboretum’s website for more information about their mission and upcoming events.
Historic Wagner Farm is one of the North Shore's most beloved gems. The site of the highly popular Glenview Farmers Market, and Historic Wagner Farm Heritage Center, the farm is a wonderful educational destination for scout troops, schools, and visitors. Children of all ages can enjoy a unique learning experience with birthday parties and daily visits. The staff at the Wagner Farm is dedicated to providing a taste of local farm life from the past and the important role that farming plays in modern culture. They strive to create fascinating programs and events to educate and entertain. If you're looking for a unique and educational experience, Historic Wagner Farm is the perfect destination. Whether you're visiting with a scout troop, school, or just for a day, you'll gain an appreciation for the role of farming in today's culture. The staff creates fun programs and events to bring the past to life, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. The farm also hosts the highly popular Glenview Farmers Market, bringing the community together to appreciate fresh, local produce. Historic Wagner Farm is truly a historic jewel of the North Shore.
At Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, you and your family can experience the beauty of nature year-round. Enjoy the changing colors of the fall foliage, snow-covered trees in the winter, wildflowers in the spring, and summertime amphibians. There's something to explore any time of year! The center provides two ponds, acres of woodland, a mile of looped trails, and an interactive nature center, making it a great place to relax, recreate, and learn. You can even take the wheelchair-accessible trail to the pond and meadow. Come explore the natural wonders of Hawthorne Hill Nature Center with your family!
Pam wanted to create something special for young children and their families. She was inspired by existing outdoor preschool programs and wanted to create an experience that would be a magical morning for parents and children, with an emphasis on unplugging and connecting with the natural world. So, with her passion for nature and her expertise on healthy life styles for children, Pam founded the Tiny Treks program. Tiny Treks is a unique outdoor preschool program that builds on Pam's vision of providing a magical morning for parents and children. With her knowledge and commitment to nature and healthy living, Pam has created a curriculum that is both fun and stimulating for Tiny Treks participants. Pam also provides parents with a flexible make-up policy, the ability to bring babies to class, and on special occasions, school-age siblings with days off.
For parents looking to engage their children in fun and educational activities during the school year, the Chicago Botanic Garden offers day camps during winter, spring, and summer school breaks, as well as school days off. These camps are staffed by highly qualified professionals and are accredited through the American Camping Association. Children can explore the Garden and all nature has to offer through a variety of activities including plant and nature investigations, science and art projects, and outdoor explorations. Register your children today to experience the Garden's exciting and educational adventures! Make the most of school breaks and days off with the Chicago Botanic Garden's day camps! Led by a team of highly qualified staff and accredited by the American Camping Association, the Garden offers a range of activities that will keep your children engaged and entertained. From plant investigations and outdoor discoveries to science and art projects, your children can explore the Garden and all it has to offer. Give your children the opportunity to participate in these action packed adventures and register them today! Take advantage of the Chicago Botanic Garden's day camps and keep your children engaged in fun and educational activities throughout the school year. Highly qualified professionals lead the camps, which are accredited by the American Camping Association, and feature a variety of activities including nature and plant investigations, science and art activities, and outdoor explorations. Let your children experience the Garden's exciting and educational adventures and register them today!
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever for parents to ensure their children engage in outdoor play experiences early and often. We know it’s not always easy to make these moments count, so we’ve created Tinkergarten to help families make the most of their kids’ early learning years. Our play-based outdoor curriculum is designed to give children hands-on lessons, valuable social interactions, and restorative activities that can’t be found on a screen. Plus, our live weekly sessions, at-home lessons, and learning community give parents the support they need to get outside and enjoy purposeful outdoor play. At Tinkergarten, we understand that the most important moments in a child’s life are the ones spent outdoors. That’s why we’ve created a play-based outdoor curriculum that makes it easier than ever for parents to provide their children with the hands-on learning, valuable social interactions, and restorative activity they need to grow and thrive. With our weekly sessions, at-home lessons, and a community of families ready to share their outdoor play experiences, we’re here to make sure every family has the tools they need to get outside and enjoy meaningful moments together.
In addition to its educational mission, the Ecology Center plays an important role in the local community by providing volunteer opportunities. Through these opportunities, residents can get involved in local conservation efforts, assist with gardening projects, and participate in educational programs. The Center also works to preserve and protect the Ladd Arboretum, and provides a venue for community events and activities such as bird walks, hikes, and celebrations. The City of Evanston is proud to maintain the Evanston Ecology Center, located on the grounds of the picturesque Ladd Arboretum. Established in 1974, the Center serves as an important hub for environmental education and volunteerism in Evanston and surrounding areas. Through its engaging educational programs, the Center helps local residents gain a greater appreciation, awareness and knowledge of the environment. From introductory natural history classes to popular summer camps, the Center offers a range of activities for kids and adults alike. The Center is also dedicated to preserving the beauty of the Ladd Arboretum and providing volunteer opportunities for local residents. Through these opportunities, residents can get involved in conservation efforts, assist with gardening projects, and participate in educational programs. The Center also serves as a venue for community events and activities such as bird walks, hikes, and celebrations. The Evanston Ecology Center is a vital part of the City of Evanston, and continues to play a critical role in environmental education and community engagement. The Center is proud to offer a range of engaging programs and activities for residents of all ages, and to provide meaningful volunteer opportunities that help make the community a better place to live.
For 50 years, the Chicago Botanic Garden has been a beautiful place to visit. Now, it is one of the world's great living museums and conservation science centers. Spanning 385 acres and including 28 gardens and four natural areas, the Garden offers something for everyone. Its Bonsai Collection is renowned, and its Lenhardt Library contains 150,000 volumes, including an impressive collection of rare botanical books. Each year, more than one million people visit the Garden to take part in programs and classes, stroll the grounds, and explore the nine laboratories of the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center. With over 50,000 members, it is one of the largest memberships of any U.S. botanic garden. The Garden is also accredited by the American Association of Museums, showing its commitment to excellence in all areas.