Pre-K & Kindergarten
Pre-K & Kindergarten programs are designed for students ages five and up.
Registration form for Pre-K & Kindergarten Spring Programs 2013.
Trees in a Nutshell
1.25 hours
180 students maximum
Nature detectives hit the trail to uncover the life cycle of trees through games, role play, and guided observation. Our discovery includes investigations into seeds, saplings, adult trees, and fallen logs. Connections are made between fallen logs and soil production to bring the amazing cycle full circle.
This program emphasizes the following Illinois Learning Standards:
11A-1a: Observation
12A-1a: Component Parts of Living Things
12A-2a: Simple Life Cycles
Spring to Life
1.25 hours
180 students maximum
Take a journey through the natural world as new life begins. Changes, big and small, are observed using magnifiers and the five senses. Experience life as an insect and the flowers they visit, through hands-on activities to make this dynamic season come to life.
This program emphasizes the following Illinois Learning Standards:
11A-1b: Scientific Questions
12B-1b: Interdependence / Survival
12E-1b: Seasonal Change
Leave No Child Inside
1.25 hours
200 students maximum
A growing body of research is telling us that unstructured time spent outdoors in nature is critical to children's physical, social, and emotional development. Such outdoor experiences can foster creativity, emotional well-being, independent learning, and problem solving. The beauty of the Arboretum changes daily, and your students will have an opportunity to explore whatever is most interesting on the day of your visit. One of our guides will be on hand to answer questions and guide students to exciting questions and observations, but the focus is on free exploration of nature.
(This program is not meant to address any specific Illinois Learning Standards.)