Friday, April 30, 2010

Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm





Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm
1111 East Schaumburg Road
Schaumburg, IL 60194
Ph: 847-985-2100
Email: springvalley@parkfun.com

Spring Valley, part of the Schaumburg Park District, is a green oasis with over three miles of fully-accessible trails, a Nature Center, exhibits, classrooms, and a working 19th century farm. Popular special events and year-round programs for groups and families are interactive and teach about nature and local history in a fun way. Program descriptions, fees, etc. available at our website (www.parkfun.com/Facilities/SpringValley.aspx). Spring Valley is free and open to the general public. For more information, or to sign up for a program, please call 847-985-2100 or email springvalley@parkfun.com.

Ongoing Programs:
Home School Classes
Bring your home school group out to Spring Valley for an afternoon of learning and fun! We offer a wide range of hands-on classes designed for home school children and their families. Our programs integrate math, science, social studies, literature and the outdoors. Programs change seasonally. Please call 847-985-2100 for more information, or visit www.parkfun.com/Facilities/SpringValley/Programs/HomeSchool.aspx to view our home school brochure.

Upcoming Programs:
Summer Camps
Summer is almost here! Whether your child is interested in farm animals, insects, pioneer living, outdoor survival or art, we have a camp for you. Spring Valley offers over 40 summer day camps for children ages 5 to 12. Spaces are still open, but filling fast! View our full summer camp brochure online at www.parkfun.com/Files/spring_valley/sv_summercamps10.pdf.

Up and At’em Animal Chores – May 29, 7:30-9:00am
Get up and get outside to help with the morning chores. After milking the cows and feeding the livestock, feed yourself with a light breakfast around the farmhouse stove. Please dress for the weather. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This program requires pre-registration by May 25th. The cost of this program is $12 for residents, $18 for non-residents.

Sensing the Night – June 4, 7:30-9:00pm
Awaken your senses to a late spring twilight walk where the mysteries of nature await. Guided by a ‘nocturnal-loving’ naturalist, tap into your senses. This program requires pre-registration by June 1st. The cost for this program is $6 for residents, $9 for non-residents.

Great Hercules Cluster – June 5, 9:30-11:00pm
Join Chicago Astronomical Society members as they set their telescopes for a peek at the night skies. This program is held on the Nature Center’s grounds; just follow the signs to the viewing site. In case of inclement weather, slides or a video will be shown indoors. This program is FREE!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Great American Backyard Campout





Remember summer evenings catching fireflies, star-gazing and sharing campfire stories? Create lasting memories and happier, healthier children by connecting with family and friends in the great outdoors. Join National Wildlife Federation’s Great American Backyard Campout®!

Kids today spend half as much time outside as their parents did, missing out on the simple pleasures of daily outdoor time. Here at the National Wildlife Federation, we know that kids are healthier and happier when they spend time outside every day. NWF programs like Green Hour, Nature Find, Trees for the 21st Century, Certified Backyard and Schoolyard Habitats are bringing kids back into the great outdoors. Your support will help us keep these initiatives going!

Last year, 90,000 people across the country gathered to spend the night under the stars. Don’t miss out. Join us on Saturday, June 26, for a night of fun, friendship, family, fresh air and fundraising.

Register online today at www.backyardcampout.org. As soon as you register, you’ll get a link to your online Participant Center so you can start planning your campout while providing you the option to fundraise for the mission. You’ll also gain access to tons of creative ideas for recipes, crafts and activities to make your campout memorable. Don’t forget the s’mores!

Thank you for your interest in the National Wildlife Federation and our mission to make outdoor time a priority for our children. We hope you’ll join the Great American Backyard Campout this year.

Don’t forget to register online today at www.backyardcampout.org so you can start earning fundraising rewards!

Sincerely,

Jaime Matyas
Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, National Wildlife Federation

Monday, April 26, 2010

Tri-County Christian Home Educators - Used Curriculum Sale



Tri-County Christian Home Educators

is having a used curriculum sale

on Thursday, May 6th from 6-8PM

at Parkview Christian School in Yorkville IL.

Anyone looking for good deals on used material is welcome to come and shop.

Also, we still have some openings for those who would like to sell their materials as well.

If you have any questions or would like to sell, please contact Sue at retepeus@comcast.net.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Big Sale coming at the Beacon Homeschool Group



Big sale coming at the Beacon Homeschool Group.

We have over 20 different families selling their used curriculum. Loads of things to choose from for less than new cost!!!
Bring small bills to making paying easier. 5's, 1's, and quarters!!

Tuesday, April 27 7:00 - 9:00pm
Elk Grove Village Public Library

Everyone is invited to come out and see the great finds!
For more details, check our website. www.beaconhomeschool.org

Beacon is a non-denominational Christian support group for parents who home educate their children. Our membership is open to any home schooling family for support. The goals of Beacon are to provide fellowship, encouragement, field trips, workshops, and resources for our members to benefit from.

Earth Day - April 22, 2010



Earth Day

History of Earth Day:
http://www.theholidayspot.com/earth_day/
http://earthday.envirolink.org/history.html
http://teacher.scholastic.com/scholasticnews/indepth/earthday/articles/index.asp?article=history&topic=0

Happy Earth Day Coloring and Activities Book:
http://www.epa.gov/region5/publications/happy/happy.htm

Earth Day coloring pages:
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/earth-day/
http://www.coloring.ws/earth.htm
http://www.spacejr.com/earth-day-coloring-pages/

Earth Day word search:
http://printables4kids.com/earth-day-word-search/

Earth Day crossword puzzle:
http://www.theholidayzone.com/earth/puzzles/Earth_Day_Crossword.pdf

Earth Day crafts:
http://crafts.kaboose.com/holidays/earth-day/earth_day_crafts.html
http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/earth/crafts.htm
http://www.makingfriends.com/earthday.htm

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

May Brown Bag Lunch

Aprons featured during May Brown Bag Lunch

Fashion and the history of fashion are very popular topics. However, the apron is usually not usually one of the items highlighted in trendy magazines or tv shows. Yet, the apron has a long and interesting history. On May 6, the Brown Bag lunch at the Sycamore History Museum is featuring a presentation on aprons. John Vidlack will explore this fascinating aspect of clothing in daily life.

Aprons have played an integral role in the lives of women throughout history. On any given day an apron might wipe a child's tears, flour from a woman's hands and sweat from her brow, ward off a chill, carry vegetables from the garden and eggs from the coop, or shoo flies from the table. Apron fashions may have changed a little over time, but their function has remained the same. Join SHM for a look in to the fascinating history of aprons from Colonial America to the twenty-first century.

The Brown Bag lunch is held on the first Thursday of the month from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. May through September the programs are held at the Sycamore History Museum, 1730 N. Main Street. The programs are free and open to the public. Donations are welcome. Coffee and cookies are provided. For more information call 815-895-5762 or visit sycamorehistory.org.

Photo: “History of Aprons” will be the May 6 Brown Bag lunch program at the Sycamore History Museum.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Minds for Design - Girl Scout Cadettes and Seniors

MINDS FOR DESIGN

Do you want to change the world? Minds for Design – Engineering Series challenges you to sharpen your math, science and technology skills as you discover engineering. You will work in groups on various engineering projects ranging from building simple electrical circuits to engineering your own invention. You don’t have to be great at science, or know anything about engineering or even be a Girl Scout! Just come to be bold, inventive, creative and awesome!

The Minds for Design – Engineering Series is funded in part by a grant from the United States Department of Education.

During this five-day workshop, you will learn about the design process, create electrical circuits, conduct material engineering experiments and design and build your own invention. You’ll have the opportunity to tour Sherman Hospital’s new geothermal lake and learn how this environmental resource heats and cools the new hospital.

Who? Girl Scout Cadettes and Seniors (girls in grades 6 – 10)

Where? Bartlett Nature Center, 2054 W. Stearns Rd., Bartlett, IL

When? June 7 - 11, 2010; 9 A.M. – 4 P.M.

Cost? $45 per registered Girl Scout; $57 per non-registered girl (includes $12 GSUSA registration fee); Financial Assistance available

Go to www.girlscoutsni.org to register for this event

Registration Deadline: May 17, 2010

Registration questions: Contact Margaret Bellamy at 847-741-5521, Ext. 7127 or mbellamy@girlscoutsni.org

Program questions: Contact Pam Schnecke at 847-741-5521, Ext. 7140 or pschnecke@girlscoutsni.org

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois
Elgin Service Center
12N124 Coombs Rd.
Elgin, IL 60124
P 847-741-5521
F 847-741-5667
www.girlscoutsni.org

Six Flags and Goodwill Industries Team Up for Earth Day



Six Flags and Goodwill Industries Team Up for Earth Day

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Be good to the earth, good to your wallet and help your community at the same time. Six Flags Great America and Goodwill Industries team up to celebrate Earth Day. Bring a bag of gently-used clothing to Six Flags Great America OPENING WEEKEND, April 24 and 25, and receive a buy one admission ticket, get one free!

Plus get BOGO deals around the park on select treats and games, including the all-new MagiQuest. Donating to Goodwill is green and is a simple act that directly benefits people in your local community. Donations will be sold in our Goodwill stores where the revenues fund training, employmnet and supportive services for people with disabilities or disadvantages.

Operating Hours at Six Flags Great America: Saturday 10am–8pm, Sunday 10am–7pm.

Donations will be taken at the Main Entrance.

Keith's Komix

YES, Every comic book store is have a free comic book day on Saturday, May 1.

Our store location is;

528 S. Roselle Road
Schaumburg, IL 60193
847-534-9436

You can go to any comic store near you!!!

Wanted to share the information,
Cathy
http://www.keithskomix.com/

CHILD - Chicagoland Homeschoolers Inclusively Learning and Discovering

Spreading the word about our group: CHILD (Chicagoland Homeschoolers Inclusively Learning and Discovering).

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CHILD_Illinois/

CHILD is for families in the western suburbs (primarily DuPage county) of Chicago who seek to connect with others for support, ideas, and enjoyment. The group is secular and inclusive, with children currently ranging in age from young toddlers to the age of 11. All are welcome!

Playgroups and meet-ups will typically be on Fridays within the general areas of Oak Brook (NE border) and Woodridge (SW border). However, as the group strives to be member-driven, dates and locations may vary depending on the organizer.

We hope you will join us!

-Elena

Fox Valley Music Camp



Fox Valley Music Camp
at Judson University

Computers and Music Around the Globe

June 28 - July 2, 2010

Join our camp and explore world music and
composition with our musical, fun-filled MIDI Lab

9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
Kindergarten through 2nd Grade Half-Day Camp

9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
3rd Grade- High School Camps

CALLING ALL YOUNG MUSICIANS!
Explore music around the globe at this fun-filled, five-day camp! We'll investigate music on every continent and discover music computer programs in our MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) computer lab. Camp cost includes all classes, presentations, and lunch served in the Judson University cafeteria. Students playing band instruments will be placed in band. Students playing stringed instruments will be placed in smaller instrumental ensembles. Vocal students will participate in vocal ensembles.

2010 IMEA Audition Preparation Class
This section of the camp is open to Junior High string players and all Senior High orchestral instrumentalists who intend to audition for District 9 and All State competitions in the fall of 2010. Students will prepare the audition material through both large ensemble rehearsals and instrument-specific assistance in sectionals. Mock auditions and experiencing the collective sound of the orchestra will give participating students a greater understanding of the repertoire and a competitive edge!

HALF-DAY CAMP
Entering Kindergarten – 2nd grade: $100
Please join us for this fun-filled exploration of music basics. Students will focus on fun rhythm games, simple instrument building, singing, and lots of FUN!!

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAMP
Entering 3rd-5th grades: $200

Computer-based instruction in composition (basics of Sibelius software) and rhythm software. Fun, games, vocal ensembles, recorder instruction, master classes, recitals, and more! Add two 30-minute private lessons taught by Judson University faculty for only $50 in piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello, trumpet, saxophone, flute, bassoon, clarinet, oboe, or drums!

JUNIOR HIGH & HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS
Entering 6th-8th grades/ Entering 9th-12th grades: $250

Computer-based instruction in music courses such as music appreciation, ear training, theory, and composition. Also, students will learn basics of such music software as Sibelius (composition), and Practica Musica (theory). Also included are private lessons, recitals, and vocal/instrumental ensembles. Camp cost includes all classes, presentations, lunch, plus two 30-minute private lessons in piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello, trumpet, saxophone, flute, bassoon, clarinet, oboe, percussion, or voice (high school only).

A registration form is available on the website at: www.judsonu.edu. For a downloadable registration form: Click on “Undergraduate” across top of screen, then “Music” on left of screen, then “Judson University Music Camp” on right of screen. On the first page is a line to click for a brochure with a registration form. If you have questions, feel free to contact Dr. Robert Kania at 847.628.1115 or rkania@judsonu.edu.

Monday, April 19, 2010

6th Annual Lincoln Park Zoo Science Celebration



The 6th Annual Lincoln Park Zoo Science Celebration:

Thursday April 22 10 a.m. - Noon

Some 200 students from the zoo’s Young Researchers Collaborative Program will showcase their creative and innovative science projects. This event is free and open to the community, giving students the opportunity to share their presentations with their peers, local scientists, zoo staff and guests. Please join us at Café Brauer near the zoo’s West Gate to support these students as they proudly display their projects to the scientific community.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

18th Annual Green and Growing Fair



Garfield Park Conservatory

18th Annual Green and Growing Fair

Saturday, April 24

Hours: 10 am – 3 pm

Where: Throughout the Conservatory

Cost: Free! Just drop by!

Kick off the growing season, and celebrate Earth Day, at the 18th Annual Green & Growing Fair at the Garfield Park Conservatory. This urban gardening fair, sponsored by GreenNet, Chicago's Urban Greening Network, plunges into spring by hosting a variety of vendors, workshops, demonstrations, and family activities to get your rusty green thumb up and running. Just some of the activities in store during the fair are:

Purchase heirloom seeds, unique seedlings, and other inspirational garden materials

Family take-home planting activities, such as rot pot seed starting activities, and grow a pizza garden!

Native Landscape Workshops, $5 per person, tickets on sale starting at 9am

“Knock on Native Wood,” 10 am – 10:45 am, with Kelsay Shaw of Possibility Place Nursery

“Jens Jensen and Prairie on Chicago’s West Side,” 11 am – Noon, with historian Barbara Geiger

Drop-In Learning Stations on the Bluestone Terrace, 11 am – 3 pm

Basics of Composting

Rot Pot Seed Starting

Tool Sharpening – bring your dull tools from home (small fee)

Been Teepees and Tomato Cages

Native Plants for your Yard

Soil Information Station

The Buzz on Beehives and Honey Tasting

Body-Smart Gardening

Winner of the One Seed Chicago “Seed of the Year” will be announced at Noon

To vote for “Seed of the Year,” visit www.oneseedchicago.com before April 1st

Free packets of the winning seed will be distributed at the Green and Growing Fair

Silent auction of urban gardening treasures

Used gardening book sale

Learn about starting community gardens and green spaces

Green Café with food and live music

For more information, please visit www.greennetchicago.org, or contact Robin Cline at 773-638-1766 ext. 18 or rcline@garfieldpark.org.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Red Oak Nature Center - Earth Day Celebration

Red Oak Nature Center to hold Earth Day celebration on April 17

Red Oak Nature Center will celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 17, with an afternoon of fun and games designed to raise awareness on how to keep the planet healthy.

From 1 to 4 p.m., visitors are invited to take part in a variety of fun and educational activities that promote recycling to make for a more Earth-friendly household.

Admission is free to all, with one condition – each child should bring 12 washed aluminum cans as their entry “ticket.” The cans will be incorporated into the games, then recycled at day’s end. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Interactive games for children will be played throughout the afternoon, including Red Oak’s popular “Aluminum Can Olympics.” Stations will be set up for games such as can bowling, can stack, can minefield and can transporter. A can-themed scavenger hunt also will take place.

Families are encouraged to attend and discover how each family member can make an impact that helps preserve a better Earth for tomorrow. The event also serves as a great service project for Scout groups.

The Fox Valley Park District’s Red Oak Nature Center is located on Route 25, one mile north of Route 56 (Butterfield Road). The park stretches for 40 scenic acres along the east bank of the Fox River and features a central museum with hands-on displays. Admission is always free. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call (630) 897-1808 for more information. For information on Fox Valley Park District programs and facilities, visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

Beacon Homeschool Group - Used Curriculum Sale

Sign up for the April Curriculum Sale

April 27

at the Elk Grove Village Public Library

7:00-9:00pm

You can register on line by going to www.beaconhomeschool.org and click on the register link on the main page.

Beacon members will get first priority to sell items.

If you plan on coming to buy, bring cash and small bills and change.

Christian Homeschoolers Education Network - Annual Used Book and Curriculum Sale

Annual Used Book and Curriculum Sale!
Sponsored by the Christian Homeschoolers Education Network

Tuesday May 11th, 5-6:30 pm
(shopping for CHOSEN members begins @ 4:30)

Park Hills Evangelical Free Church—2525 West Stephenson St. –Freeport, IL

You are invited to join us for this annual event! This is a great opportunity to find some real bargains, meet other Homeschool moms, have some fun, AND make a little profit!

Drop-off items to be sold between 9:30-11am on Tuesday, May 11th, in the New Foyer

Pick-up unsold items and payment between 7:30-8:30 pm on Tuesday, May 11th. NOTE: unclaimed items and cash will be disposed of that evening. CHOSEN will retain 10% of sales. We are NOT responsible for missing items at the end of the sale.

ACCEPTABLE CATEGORIES: Art, Audio-Visual, Bible, Easy Readers, Fiction, Foreign Language, Handwriting, History, Homeschool Helps, Kindergarten, Language Arts (K-6 & 7-12), Math (K-6 & 7-12), Math Manipulatives, Music, Parenting, Phonics, Pre-K, Puzzles & Games, Readers, Science, Spelling, and Unit Studies.

UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS: Cookbooks, Diet Books, Self-help Books, Romance Novels, musty books, or any item marked “Free.”

All items MUST be marked in the following format: Every item must have a 3x5 card attached to the first page (not the cover) with a paper clip. DO NOT USE TAPE. Items not marked in this manner will be considered in non-sale condition and not placed in the sale.

Front of Card ($Price and Grade Level/Category should be on the right - Blogger won't allow me to space them over - for questions see contact information below):

Name (Last, First) $Price

Title of Item
Description
(title, publisher, price new etc…)

Grade Level/Category


Back of card:

Name
Address
Phone Number


We respectfully request NO STROLLERS. Nursing infants are welcome in backpack-type carriers. NO CHILDREN UNDER 16 ALLOWED IN THE BUILIDING.

Questions or comments? Contact Merry Marinello at 815-297-8426 or email at merry@hopeismyanchor.com. DO NOT CONTACT THE CHURCH.

ENTICE Educator Workshops

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources' (IDNR) Division of Education sponsors educator workshops through the ENTICE program. These workshops offer Continuing Professional Development Units for teachers.

Please register for workshops through the link shown with each workshop description. A nonrefundable registration fee is required. The fee is $10.00 per person per workshop unless stated otherwise in the workshop description. Should you have questions about workshop registration please email (dnr.teachkids@illinois.gov) or call (217-524-4126) the IDNR Division of Education. Should the IDNR cancel a workshop, registrants will receive a credit certificate toward registration at another workshop of the same type (on site or online). Some restrictions apply.

ABOUT THE WORKSHOPS
ENTICE workshops provide natural resources information, instructional methods and supplemental educational materials. When incorporated into lessons with students, the materials provided encourage and promote stewardship of our state’s natural resources. ENTICE also offers participants the opportunity to network with other educators in a friendly, cooperative, learning environment.

Illinois ENTICE provides the following items for participants:
* free workshop/resource materials
* meals during the workshop
* opportunities to connect with natural resources and education professionals
* lesson plans and activities correlated to the Illinois Learning Standards for teachers, continuing professional development units

REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Workshops are open to all educators and are designed for targeted grade levels. Maximum enrollment for each course is 30 participants.

Have questions? Contact the IDNR Division of Education at dnr.teachkids@illinois.gov or 217-524-4126.

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Course Name: The Massasauga: Illinois Prairie Rattlesnake
Program: ENTICE
Location: Eldon Hazlet State Park, Carlyle
Date(s): April 27, 2010
Time(s): 9:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m.

Researchers from the Illinois Natural History Survey will enlighten us about their work with this endangered reptile at this workshop for educators of grades four through 12. We’ll learn about the massasauga’s life history and status and, weather-permitting, will visit some of its habitat in the park. You’ll receive numerous Illinois-specific resources. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program. REGISTRATION FOR THIS WORKSHOP WILL CLOSE AT 8:00 A.M. ON MONDAY, APRIL 19, 2010.

| Register for this Workshop |
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Course Name: Pioneers and the Prairie
Program: ENTICE
Location: Boone County Conservation District, Belvidere
Date(s): May 1, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Join us at this workshop for educators of grades four through eight as we discover what life was like for the pioneers on Illinois’ prairies. (Educators of other grade levels are welcome to register, but the activities and materials distributed at the workshop will target grades four through eight. You will need to adapt them to other grades.) We’ll feature hands-on activities and the new Illinois Prairies resources trunk from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). You’ll receive numerous supplemental items to enhance your curriculum. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the IDNR, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program. REGISTRATION FOR THIS WORKSHOP WILL CLOSE AT 8:00 A.M. ON FRIDAY, APRIL 23, 2010.

| Register for this Workshop |
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Course Name: The Ohio River: History, Ecology, Commerce
Program: ENTICE
Location: Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis
Date(s): June 15, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

The Ohio River has been an incredible resource throughout Illinois’ history. Staff from Living Lands and Waters and the Illinois Natural History Survey will lead this workshop for educators of grades four through eight on a journey to discover how the river helped to determine the destiny of our state. (Educators of other grade levels are welcome to register, but the activities and materials distributed at the workshop will target grades four through eight. You will need to adapt them to other grades.) A boat trip on the river will be part of this workshop, weather and river conditions permitting. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program. REGISTRATION FOR THIS WORKSHOP WILL CLOSE AT 8:00 A.M. ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 19, 2010.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Online The Sangamon River: A Sense of Place
Program: ENTICE
Location: Online
Date(s): July 5-18, 2010
Time(s): various

Learn about the history of the Sangamon River and the people whose lives are connected to this watercourse. We’ll discuss the economic, cultural and ecological aspects of the river, too. Targeted to teachers of grades 6-10, you’ll receive resources that will help you to implement the topic into your classes. Educators of other grade levels are welcome to attend the workshop, but they will need to adapt the materials to the grade levels taught, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The registration fee for this workshop is $25.00.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Illinois Bats
Program: ENTICE
Location: Fullersburg Woods, Oak Brook
Date(s): July 7, 2010
Time(s): 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

The only true flying mammals will be examined at this workshop for educators of grades four through eight. Work with resource professionals as you learn about the life history of bats and their relationships to other species in the environment. We’ll attempt to capture and band bats during the evening, too. Experience hands-on activities that can be instantly implemented into your curriculum. Take home many Illinois-specific supplemental materials. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Educators of other grade levels are welcome to attend the workshop, but they will need to adapt the materials to the grade levels taught, as appropriate. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Illinois Butterflies
Program: ENTICE
Location: Sugar Grove Nature Center, McLean
Date(s): July 19, 2010
Time(s): 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Flutter in and join other educators of grades kindergarten through six as we are introduced to the butterflies of Illinois! Butterfly life history, identification, conservation and adaptations will be discussed. Information on developing butterfly habitat will also be included. Learn about Monarch Watch and other butterfly conservation programs. We’ll go outside to observe and identify butterflies in native habitats. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for this workshop but may need to adapt the materials for their students, as appropriate. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Illinois Beetles
Program: ENTICE
Location: The Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago
Date(s): July 23, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The beetles are coming! Join us to study the amazing world of beetles in Illinois. We’ll look at their life history, habitats and importance. Identification skills will be introduced and practiced. We’ll observe beetles in the Field Museum’s collection and also search for beetles in a nearby prairie. Targeted to educators of grades four through six, hands-on activities and classroom-ready materials will be provided. Educators of other grade levels are welcome to register for the workshop, but they will need to adapt the materials to the grade levels taught, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Native Americans and Nature in Illinois
Program: ENTICE
Location: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville
Date(s): July 24, 2010
Time(s): 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Learn about Native American peoples and how they used natural resources in this workshop. Targeted to educators of grades four through six, hands-on activities and classroom-ready materials will be provided. Workshop materials are relevant to Native American history throughout the state. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for this workshop but may need to adapt the materials for their students, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Illinois Butterflies and Dragonflies
Program: ENTICE
Location: Ballard Nature Center, Altamont
Date(s): August 4, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Flutter in and join other educators of grades kindergarten through six as we are introduced to the butterflies and dragonflies of Illinois! Topics to be covered include life history, identification, conservation and adaptation. We’ll visit the prairie and wetland to observe and identify these creatures in their native habitats. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for this workshop but may need to adapt the materials for their students, as appropriate. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Incorporating Nature into Fine Arts
Program: ENTICE
Location: The Morton Arboretum, Lisle
Date(s): August 28, 2010
Time(s): 9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Once you draw it, you know it! Help your students learn observational skills and practice connecting form and function through art. This professional development workshop will provide K-12 art teachers with tools and skills to create and enhance interdisciplinary nature education activities for their classrooms. Participants will enjoy a tour of the Steve Tobin exhibit, Steelroots, and create a watercolor mini-painting from examples of leaves, seed pods and roots. Then participants will create a simple take-home design working with the elements in your painting. Ample opportunities to share ideas with colleagues will be provided. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Prairie Plants: Identification, Anatomy, Landscaping
Program: ENTICE
Location: Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, Wilmington
Date(s): September 11, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Join us at this workshop for educators of grades kindergarten through 12 as we explore the prairie flora at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. You’ll learn how to identify prairie plants and use them in schoolyard and home landscaping. Our experts from the Illinois Natural History Survey will also enlighten us on the historic uses of these plants by Native Americans and pioneers. You’ll take home many resources to use in the classroom. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Aquatic Illinois
Program: ENTICE
Location: National Great Rivers Research and Education Center, Grafton
Date(s): September 13, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Staff members of the RiverWatch Discovery Program will lead this hands-on workshop for educators of grades five through 12. We’ll spend part of the day leaning about Illinois aquatics in general as well as introducing you to some of the activities and resources included in the Aquatic Illinois resources trunk from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The rest of the day will be a “sip” of the RiverWatch Discovery Program, as you sample a local stream and evaluate its water quality. You’ll take home many resources to use in the classroom. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the IDNR, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Lake Michigan Fishes
Program: ENTICE
Location: Shedd Aquarium, Chicago
Date(s): September 25, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Something fishy is going to happen at this workshop for educators of grades four through six!You’ll learn about native and exotic fishes of Lake Michigan, their characteristics, adaptations and habitats. We'll also look at the affect nonnative species have had on the ecology of Lake Michigan. You’ll receive many supplemental educational materials to use in your classroom. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for this workshop but may need to adapt the materials for their students, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Creating and Keeping Collections
Program: ENTICE
Location: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago
Date(s): October 2, 2010
Time(s): 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

For over 150 years the Chicago Academy of Sciences and its Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum have been assembling and maintaining a variety of natural history specimens and collections. Learn about the Museum’s collections and why collections are important for both scientific and educational purposes. We’ll discuss how to build and maintain a collection, guidelines for collecting natural materials, and how to use collections in the classroom. Participate in numerous hands-on activities and take home many supplemental resources. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program. This workshop is suitable for teachers of all grade levels.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Pages from the Prairies
Program: ENTICE
Location: Fermilab, Batavia
Date(s): October 16, 2010
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Use Illinois’ tallgrass prairie legacy as a bridge to link disciplines in your PreK through grade eight classroom! Learn to foster a connection between the biology of the prairie and the traditionally unassociated disciplines of literature and the arts. Participants will enjoy a lively combination of hands-on outdoor and classroom-based activities, as well as art and movement extensions based on a selection of scientifically-accurate children’s fiction and authentic “prairie pioneer” journals. Participants receive the manual of all workshop activities correlated to Illinois Learning Goals and Standards, reading lists, a selection of books and other resources. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: The Cache River Wetlands
Program: ENTICE
Location: Cache River Visitors Center, Cypress
Date(s): October 22, 2010
Time(s): 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Join staff from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ (IDNR) Cache River Wetlands as they teach us about the interrelationships of organisms in this beautiful natural treasure. Targeted to educators of grades four through 10, this workshop will include discussions of species adaptations, relationships of wetland organisms to each other and the physical environment, biotic and abiotic factors affecting populations and much more. We’ll visit the wetlands, too. Supplemental educational materials and activities will be provided. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the IDNR. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to resister for the workshop but will need to adapt the activities as appropriate.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Online Schoolyard Wildlife Habitat Development
Program: ENTICE
Location: Online
Date(s): February 14-27, 2011
Time(s): various

How’s your habitat? Join us to learn how you and your students can take action to improve wildlife habitat on your school grounds. Educators of grades kindergarten through 12 will learn basic habitat design, development and maintenance techniques. Become aware of grant opportunities and obtain supplemental materials to help you get started with your own schoolyard habitat development. Continuing professional Development Units are available. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The registration fee for this workshop is $25.00.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Online Frogs and Toads
Program: ENTICE
Location: Online
Date(s): March 14-27, 2011
Time(s): various

Hop over to your computer and join us for this workshop about Illinois’ frogs and toads. Designed for educators of grades kindergarten through six, you’ll learn about these amazing creatures and receive many Illinois-specific resources. Anuran life history, identification, relationships to other organisms and adaptations will be among the topics covered. Teachers of other grades are welcome to register for the workshop but will need to adapt the information, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program. The registration fee for this workshop is $25.00.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Illinois Aquatic Invasive Species
Program: ENTICE
Location: Atwood Environmental Center, Rockford
Date(s): March 18, 2011
Time(s): 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

What are aquatic invasive species? Why are they often devastative to native species? How do they get here? What are some examples from Illinois? These and many other questions will be answered at this workshop for educators of grades four through eight. You’ll take home Illinois-specific resources to implement into your curriculum and will participate in numerous hands-on activities. Teachers of other grades are welcome to register for the workshop but will need to adapt the information, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: The Greater Prairie-chicken
Program: ENTICE
Location: Prairie Ridge State Natural Area, Newton
Date(s): March 25-26, 2011
Time(s): March 25: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. March 26: See note below.

The greater prairie-chicken was once represented with millions of individuals in Illinois. Now there are approximately 200 birds remaining in two southeastern Illinois counties. Participants in this workshop will learn about the life history and management of the prairie-chicken in Illinois and will observe the mating activities of the birds from blinds on the booming grounds. Activities will be targeted to teachers of grades four through 10. PLEASE NOTE: The March 26 segment of this workshop will begin well before sunrise as we gather at the site office then walk in the dark to the blinds. We will remain in the blinds until approximately 8:30 a.m., and the workshop will conclude by 9:30 a.m. Only 15 participants will be allowed. Once 15 people have registered, a waiting list will be maintained. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Prairie School Gardening
Program: ENTICE
Location: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe
Date(s): April 30, 2011
Time(s): 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

How’s your habitat? Join us to learn how you and your students can take action to improve wildlife habitat on your school grounds by incorporating a native prairie. Educators of grades six through 12 will learn basic prairie habitat design, development and maintenance techniques. Become aware of grant opportunities and obtain supplemental materials to help you get started with your own schoolyard prairie habitat development. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Archaeology and Native Americans in Illinois
Program: ENTICE
Location: Burpee Museum of Natural History, Rockford
Date(s): May 14, 2011
Time(s): 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Join other educators as we explore the Burpee Museum of Natural History, participate in many hands-on activities, visit the mounds in Beattie Park and listen to Dr. Michael Wiant of Dickson Mounds Museum, while learning how archaeology helps us to discover facets of the lives of Native American peoples of Illinois. You’ll receive a wealth of resources to help you implement the topic into your curriculum. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for the workshop but will need to adapt the activities, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Illinois Butterflies
Program: ENTICE
Location: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago
Date(s): May 21, 2011
Time(s): 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Educators of grades kindergarten through six are invited to register for this workshop. Butterfly life history, identification, conservation and adaptations will be discussed. Discussion about developing butterfly habitat and raising butterflies in the classroom is also included. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for the workshop but will need to adapt the activities, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, this workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program.

| Register for this Workshop |

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Course Name: Identifying Trees and Making Leaf Collections
Program: ENTICE
Location: The Morton Arboretum, Lisle
Date(s): June 18, 2011
Time(s): 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Do you ask your students to make a leaf collection? Do you know the proper way to preserve leaves? Are you confident identifying the leaves submitted? Attend this workshop, and you’ll work with experts to learn how to identify and preserve tree leaves. We’ll practice the skills on a trip to the woods. You’ll take home many resources to support your teaching. Teachers of other grade levels are welcome to register for this workshop but may need to adapt the materials for their students, as appropriate. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

| Register for this Workshop |

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Sycamore Public Library Programs

Sycamore Public Library

Family Lego Day:
Sunday, April 18, 1:30-3 p.m.

Our next Family Lego Day at the library is Sunday, April 18! Children of all ages come with your favorite adult and enjoy an afternoon of creating with Legos. Lego Day will take place in the large meeting room on the first floor of the library.The library will provide all of the Legos for this program. Please do not bring any Legos from home - they might get mixed up with the Library's Legos and get lost.
We have been accepting Lego donations for awhile, and think we have enough for families to enjoy a fun, creative program. Donations of Legos are still being accepted.

Cold Blooded Creatures Reptile Program:
Saturday, April 24, 10 a.m.

Jim Nesci brings five ambassadors from the reptile world to the library's Big Meeting Room. The group includes snakes, an alligator, lizards and a tortoise. Jim's message to conserve and protect reptiles is the focus of his show. During his presentation, respect and safety for the animals and participants takes front stage. The Cold Blooded Creatures Reptile program will last about an hour...long enough for everyone to see, touch and learn about the animals. A generous gift from the Mary E. Stevens Concert and Lecture Fund made this Earth Day Celebration possible.
Free, no pre-registration required.

Contests and Scholarships



Looking for current contests and scholarship opportunities?

Visit the Contests and Scholarships page published by Homeschool Buyer's Co-op.

Here you will find links to over 170,000 educational contests and scholarships worth over $650 million! Is your child a history buff? Budding photographer? Engineer, artist, athlete, or scientist? You can quickly and easily search our database by category, geographic region, grade level, or keyword. You are sure to find one that is rewarding to pursue and win! Best of all, this database and Co-op membership are FREE and you won't get spammed!!!

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Robinsunne's Multiplication Clock

Looking for a fun way for your child to learn their multiplication facts?

Check out: Robinsunne's Multiplication Clock



Click here to visit Robinsunne's website for complete instructions.

Classic Cinemas Wednesday Morning Movie Series



Classic Cinemas Wednesday Morning Movie Series
The Wednesday Morning Movie Series will be returning for the summer on June 16th! This year the Series will be 9 weeks, and will run every Wednesday starting June 16th – August 11th. The Series will only be showing PG rated films, which makes it perfect for all ages! Admission is only $1 per person!

The doors will open for the Wednesday Morning Movie Series at 9:00 a.m. Make sure to come early to meet some of your favorite characters and join in on the fun games and activities. Every Wednesday the movie will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Classic Cinemas is happy to take reservations for groups of 15 or more. For more information on group reservations Click Here!

Click Here for the 2010 Wednesday Morning Movie Series schedule.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Midwest Museum of Natural History



http://mmnh.org/

Kids Science Series: Scientific Illustration
April 18, 2:00
Free with admission

Illustrator Suzanne Wegener from the Morton Arboretum will be joining us for a workshop on scientific illustration. Learn what makes scientific illustration special and try your hand at drawing museum specimens. This is a great hands-on program for young artists ages 6 and up, but all are welcome. Adults welcome too!

Trash to Treasure
April 22, 12-5:00 pm
Free with admission

Celebrate Earth Day with crafts made from recycled materials.

May Day Baskets
May 1, 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Free with admission

Put some extra spring in your step as we celebrate May Day! Make a paper basket to hang on your neighbor's door.

Adult Science Series:
Shooting Star: the Prairie Plant with Attitude
May 1, 2:00 pm
Free with admission

Professor Paul Sorensen will share his passion for plants, particularly the Shooting Star, a prairie flower that will be blooming in early May. Learn what makes this plant special and discover where to find it.

Teacher Appreciation Week
May 2-8
sponsored by School Tool Box

Teachers get free admission all week! (Show your school ID or other employment document at the admission desk.) Be sure to visit the display in our lobby to learn how MMNH can be a great resource for your class, and enter raffles to win a prize basket from School Tool Box or an outreach program for your class.

Dissection Workshop: Frogs
May 18 , 6:30-8:00 pm
Non-members: $20/person, Members: $18/person

Dan Mitchell, biology teacher at Kishwaukee College, will lead participants through the dissection of a frog. Everyone gets their own specimen. This class is open to ages 9 through adult; children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, register today by calling 815-895-9777.

Late Night at the Museum
May 20, 6-8:00 pm
Discounted admission: $4/person (members free)
Never been to the museum? Or perhaps you visit every week? Either way, this is the perfect night for you! Enjoy discounted admission, games, treats, animal visits, and more.

Kids Science Series: Birds!
May 22 , 2:00 pm
Free with admission

Environmental educator Kris Hammer will help us discover the amazing world of birds. Each participant will make a bird call to take home!

Double J Riding Club



Double J Riding Club is located conveniently near the intersections of I-294 and I-55, at 10545 W. 74th Street. We offer:

• A series of 5 monthly homeschool courses, available September through May;
• Summer camps for ages 4-5 and 6-15;
• Private, semi-private & individual horse riding lessons;
• Therapeutic horse riding lessons with NAHRA-certified instructors;
• Group outings & birthday parties.

Please contact owner Cindy Johnson at 708-352-5675 OR doublej@doublejridingclub.com OR our website, doublejridingclub.com, for more information, registration forms, etc. We invite you to come in for a tour.

2nd Annual Pere Marquette Homeschool and Parent Conference



Network of Illinois Catholic Home Educators

2nd Annual Pere Marquette Home School and Parent Conference

The 2nd Annual Père Marquette Home School and Parent Conference will be held Friday and Saturday, May 7-8, 2010, at North Central College in Naperville, Illinois. The conference serves home schooling families, as well as parents who wish to pass on the Catholic Faith to their children at home. This year, the conference is expanding the vendor hall, and popular curriculum providers like Kolbe Academy, Mother of Divine Grace, Our Lady of Victory, and Seton Home Study School will be represented.

The conference is honored that Bishop J. Peter Sartain of the Diocese of Joliet will address Catholic parents. Speakers include Laura Berquist, James Stenson, Fr. Frank Phillips, Sr. Helena Burns, and Professor Joseph Pearce. The teen programs will feature a presentation on Lepanto, the Battle and the Poem, by Christopher Check. To see the rest of the stellar line up of speakers and vendors, and to register, visit the conference website at www.nichejmj.com.

Friday, April 9, 2010

Go Fly a Kite 2010



Go Fly a Kite 2010
April 17, 2010 • 9 am

Last April, in conjunction with Wheaton’s Sesquicentennial Celebration, Wheaton residents attempted to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the most kites flown simultaneously (967 kites). We had over 1,100 notarized registrants that day, but unfortunately, the wind was not on our side, and we did not break the record. A certified 800 kites were set aloft that day. The families that came out for the event had a great time, so we are ready to “give it another try.”

On Saturday morning, April 17, 2010 at Graf Park in Wheaton at 9:00 a.m., the Wheaton Park District and area families will attempt to break last year’s record of 800 kites in the air simultaneously!

The schedule for the morning is as follows:

Sign in: 9 am
Grand Launch: 10 am
Chicago Fire Kite Team Demonstration: 11 am
Kite games: 11:30 am

The rain date for the event is Sunday, April 25, 2010 at 12:00 p.m.

This is a FREE event!
Bring your own kite, or purchase a special Go Fly a Kite commemorative kite. Kites are currently on sale at the Community Center and the DuPage County Historical Museum for $5 each. We will also have t-shirts available for purchase in addition to other community vendors.

NEW THIS YEAR -- The Chicago Fire Kite Team will be coming to the event to perform a demonstration as well as coordinate a number of fun kite flying activities for the participants. A video of one of their demonstrations can be viewed a here. A video of last year’s event can be viewed a here .

Register
To register, please print this registration form and bring it with you the day of the event.

Parking
View a Parking Map »

Volunteers
The Go Fly a Kite Committee is seeking volunteers, to help, click here.

Questions
If you have any questions, please contact Cathy Hetrick at chetrick@wheatonparks.org or at 630-510-4986.

This event is sponsored by Gift of Wings and the Kite Society of Wisconsin and Illinois and is now part of the “TOUR de KITES."
For more information, please visit the Gift of Wings web site at www.giftofwings.com.

Polar Play Family Breakfasts - Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium

Polar Play Family Breakfasts

See a penguin, meet a penguin, be a penguin! You can do it all – and more – during Shedd’s new Polar Play Family Breakfast. Enjoy a continental breakfast, then parade like a penguin to the 4-D theater to meet a live penguin and talk to a trainer. Next, sit back for a private screening of the new 12-minute Happy Feet 4-D Experience. You’ll be inspired to dance your way to Polar Play Zone to explore the touch pool and penguin playscape and enjoy a morning of interactive penguin games before the exhibit opens to the public. The whole family can learn how to raise a penguin chick and do a penguin behavior study, just like a trainer! First in a series of exclusive breakfast programs, this also includes a free family photo, a free activity packet filled with pre- and post-visit activities, admission to the aquarium and reserved seats to Shedd’s new aquatic show, Fantasea – where you’ll see more penguins! Hop, don’t waddle, to make your reservations now!

Price: $39.95 ($35.95 members) a person
April 17 or May 22
8-11 a.m. (including Fantasea at 10:30 a.m.)

To register, call 312-692-3355.

Letters to God at Randall 15 IMAX




Today is Opening Day for LETTERS TO GOD!

Don’t miss the opportunity to bring your students to the Randall 15 IMAX Theater to see LETTERS TO GOD. This faith-based family film will inspire and reaffirm your faith in everyone and everything that God provides.

A heartfelt tale of inspiration, hope and redemption, "Letters to God" is the story of what happens when one boy's walk of faith crosses paths with one man's search for meaning-the resulting transformational journey touches the lives of everyone around them. Tyler Doherty (TANNER MAGUIRE) is an extraordinary eight-year-old boy. Surrounded by a loving family and community, and armed with the courage of his faith, he faces his daily battle against cancer with bravery and grace. To Tyler, God is a friend, a teacher and the ultimate pen pal-Tyler's prayers take the form of letters, which he composes and mails on a daily basis. The letters find their way into the hands of Brady McDaniels (JEFFREY S.S. JOHNSON), a beleaguered postman standing at a crossroads in his life. At first, he is confused and conflicted over what to do with the letters. But the decision he ultimately makes becomes a testament to the quiet power of one boy's shining spirit and unshakable faith. Inspired by a true story, "Letters to God" is an intimate, moving and often funny story about the galvanizing effect one child's belief can have on his family, friends and community.

Showtimes for LETTERS TO GOD are: 11:00am, 1:30pm, 4:05pm, 6:35pm, 9:00pm & 11:25pm. Running time is 90 minutes, and groups of 10 or more are just $5.75/ticket.

If this sounds like a good match for you, let me know. I will be glad to help in any way I can.

Jeannette Smith
Group Sales
630.659.6762
jsmith@gqti.com

DuPage Forest Preserve Summer Camps Registration

DuPage Forest Preserve Summer Camps Registration

How will your child spend summer? Sitting on the couch watching TV or riding horses, feeding farm animals or exploring the outdoors? Help your child discover a new corner of the world through one of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s summer programs for kids.

All programs are day camps, and some include one-night camp outs. Enrollment deadlines vary. Registration forms are available in the Education section of the District's Web site.

“GO! Camp for Guys” will guide Boy Scouts ages 11 – 17 through a week in the outdoors July 12 – 16 at Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center. Activities, which include an overnight camp out, will meet requirements of the “Environmental Science” merit badge, a badge required for advancement to Eagle Scout. Registration for “GO! Camp for Guys” costs $99 per Scout for DuPage County residents and $125 for nonresidents. For information, call the center at 630-850-8110.

During “Horse Sense” camp at Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton, children ages 10 – 12 will enjoy hands-on experiences with horses while learning about day-to-day stable activities. Crafts, games and supervised lead-line horseback rides round out the program. Four five-day sessions are offered between June and August. Registration costs $203 per session for DuPage County residents and $232 for nonresidents. For information on “Horse Sense” camp, call the center at 630-668-6012.

At Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn, children ages 9 – 12 can participate in “Roger Raccoon Club” and discover the natural history of DuPage County through safe exploration and play in wild places. Two four-day sessions are offered in June and July, each including an overnight camp out at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien. Registration costs $75 per session. For information on “Roger Raccoon Club,” call the center at 630-942-6200.

Also coordinated by Willowbrook Wildlife Center, children ages 6 – 8 can enroll in “Hodge Podge Lodge,” where they will learn about the environment and how they are part of nature. Each day will involve games, activities and stories. Each session will conclude with a cookout at Herrick Lake Forest Preserve in Wheaton. Three four-day sessions are offered in June, July and August. Registration costs $75 per session. For information on “Hodge Podge Lodge,” call the center at 630-942-6200.

And, Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago offers “Kline Creek Farmhands,” where children ages 7 – 12 can experience life on a historic working farm, including chores and domestic activities as well as games from the 1890s. Seven three-day sessions are offered during June, July and August. Fees are $75 per session. For information on “Kline Creek Farmhands,” call the farm at 630-876-5900.

With 60 forest preserves and five education facilities, there are many programs and activities that explore the wild places that are right at your feet in DuPage County forest preserves. For more information, call 630-933-7200, or visit www.dupageforest.org.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Geof Manthorne - Ace of Cakes Star



The Food Network's Ace of Cakes Star,
Geof Manthorne

Date: Tuesday - April 13, 2010
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Wellness and Sports Center (Building M)
$7 - Harper students w/valid ID
$10 - Other students w/valid ID, Harper faculty/staff, seniors
$15 - General Admission

As one of the stars of the Food Network's hit reality show Ace of Cakes, Geof Manthorne is known for his incredible cake creations and dry, sardonic sense of humor. As Executive Sous Chef and project lead, Geof oversees replicas. With a meticulous eye for detail, he has constructed cake models of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Taj Mahal, and a Les Paul guitar. Geof will demonstrate some basic cake decorations and show video clips from the show.

Ace of Cakes goes behind the scenes at Charm City Cakes in Baltimore, Maryland, where Geof works with owner Duff Goldman and a team of artists who work together to create as many as 15-20 cakes a week at times, some of which take up to 29 hours to build.

Visit Geof's Facebook page or see a clip about Geof's Rockin' Guitar Cake, a replica of a Les Paul guitar and how the crew saved the day when a mistake threatened to ruin his masterpiece!

Buy tickets now.

The Learning Vine - Fall 2010




Hi Learning Vine Friends,

Happy Spring! Our spring semester is about half over, and it's time to look ahead to the next school year. Please read the following updates.

Change to the Code of Conduct:

We have prayerfully considered and decided on the following, much needed change, which applies to both the current and future semesters, for the Friday Enrichment Program:

Students of all ages must be supervised by a parent or adult supervisor (age 18 or older) during non-class hours. If your child has consecutive classes and is age 8 or older, you may leave the building. Otherwise, during off periods, your child must be supervised by you or another adult. If it is discovered that you have left your child unsupervised, you may be asked to leave LV without refund. The safety of our children is our top priority. (This includes high school students.) We have no hall monitors or enclosed study hall on Fridays due to lack of space.

Enrichment Program updates:

The new catalog of Fall Enrichment classes and the fall Friday schedule has been posted to the LV website.
You can print off the whole catalog of courses here.
Please take the next month to review these courses carefully to decide on the best plan for your children.
Registration opens to the public on May 7th, at 9 AM. The online registration will require a $5 registration fee per child and deposits for each class. These are non-refundable, so please choose carefully.

We hope you enjoy reading about all of the exciting new classes we have for the fall.

Blessings,

Karine Bauch and Karen Jarvis
www.thelearningvine.org

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

For Sale - Microscope and slides



Greetings,

I am a home school mom who is about to finish her career of educating her children. One is a sophomore in college and one is on her way to college. I would like to sell a very high quality microscope that was used for Apologia Biology and Advanced Biology along with all of the prepared slides needed for both of these courses. I am prepared to sell these items at a very discounted price to someone in the Northern Illinois area and will also be willing to deliver the items to avoid shipping costs. Below are the details:

Microscope
Bought from Nature's Workshop Plus (www.workshopplus.com)
Model #131 Price $220.00

Biology slides set of 16 original price approx. $50.00

Human Anatomy slides original price $52.00

My price for all 3 - $200.00

If you would like to do some research on these items, visit the Nature's Workshop Plus website at www.workshopplus.com. Also go to Home Science Tools website www.hometrainingtools.com. The microscope is listed by the manufacturer Nat'l Optical, also Model 131. This website's prices are a better deal.

I will also sell the microscope by itself for $150.00. This is a very good price for such a high quality item. This would be a great item to have to conduct a high school group lab class, which is what I did with my children.

Once again, I am willing to deliver the microscope if the location is somewhere in Northern Illinois. If interested, please contact me by email.

April Nelson
aprilanelson@gmail.com

Homeschool Teen Literature Group



Homeschool Teen Literature Group
"The Lit Group "

Literature and Fun
in the Fox River Valley
(Batavia, Illinois)
For homeschooled teens

Literature and Fun? Yes, really. We do read literature, and we do have fun. Some books are easy, but if the book is hard, we take it, and make it, as easy as we can.
We're homeschooled teens (and a parent) who read and discuss books: classics like Dickens & Austen, and easier stuff. We also enjoy book-related special events.
We meet in Batavia Fridays 3:30-5:00 Sept.-June. We generally have a good time.

What teens like about Lit Group:
"It's fun." "The social part."
"I actually like Jane Austen."
"I like how you can draw while you talk about the book."
"Having a chance to discuss things."

If you're a homeschooled teen and can read (we DOexpect you to read the books), we welcome you to check out Lit Group! Don't wait for a new school year.

For homeschool parents:
- Yes, Lit Group is chaperoned.
- Your teen meets and hangs out with other smart teens in a safe, respectful, and fun-yet-task-oriented place.
- It's free (special event fees optional).
- A book isn't right for your teen? Have them "sit out" the book by not coming.
- All teen homeschoolers invited no matter their creed or curriculum.
- It's excellent preparation for college.
- It's excellent preparation for not-college.

Some books from the past few years:
Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities. Huckleberry Finn. The Good Earth. Pride & Prejudice. All Quiet on the Western Front. The Old Man & the Sea. Around the World in 80 Days. My Antonia. The Three Musketeers. The Gospel According to Larry. The Book Thief. Cry, the Beloved Country. When my name was Keoko. Cannery Row. Number the Stars. A Separate Peace.

Some events from the past few years:
Went to the play "A Christmas Carol." Cooked and ate Chinese food. Visited Cantigny WWI Museum & Hemingway's home. Slide show: "Around The World." After-Lit Group snacks. Movies of the books. Japan-Korea food fair. Author (Lois Lowry) lecture. Graduation parties.

More info at www.hlitgroup.org, or call Leo Heska at 630-482-9166, or e-mail mailbox@hlitgroup.org, or float down the Fox River and shout real loud.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Great American Backyard Campout



Event Details
Join the Great American Backyard Campout on Saturday, June 26, in your backyard, parks, campgrounds or even your balcony! No site is too big or too small to spend a night sleeping under the stars.

What's New This Year?
We're using a brand-new tool that allows you to form "Campout Teams" and raise money that goes right back to helping connect even more kids to the outdoors through National Wildlife Federation's programs, such as Wildlife Watch and Trees for the 21st Century.

When you register your campsite, you'll be able to choose whether you want to set a fund-raising goal. You'll get your own personal page to customize with stories about your own camping experiences or even a treasured photo. Plus you can watch how much money you raise and also send personalized email invites to your friends, family members, co-workers, and neighbors.

As you and your recruited campout buddies raise money, you'll become eligible for Great American Backyard Campout t-shirts and more!

Sign Up Your Campsite Today
Don't miss out on letting us know you're camping! By signing up your campsite, you'll join thousands of people across the country who are making a statement that the outdoors rock. Also, you'll have access to free activities, tips, songs, stories and recipes that will make your Backyard Campout a night to remember.

Ways to Participate
Camp! - Invite your friends or family members to join you for a sleepover under the stars.

Camp With Your Neighborhood - Backyard too small to host everyone? Invite your friends, neighbors and their kids to a common area of your neighborhood to share this camping experience.

Camp With Your Co-Workers - Gather your co-workers and their friends and families to a local campground or the boss's big backyard!

Organize a Community Campout - Planning a larger-scale Campout for your youth group or community? Register as a Community Partner Team Captain and we'll provide you with the help you need to pull off a great event.

Donate to a Camper - Can't make it outside but want to show a lucky camper your support? Search for someone you know or make a general donation to the event.

Help Spread the Word - Help spread the word about Campout by connecting with us online and sharing updates about Campout.

Share Your Photos and Stories - Add your stories and photos to our Flickr photo group and discussion board or by becoming a fan of Great American Backyard Campout on Facebook.

Write About Campout - Get any help you need to put together news articles, blog posts or more to help spread the word about Campout.

Sponsor the Event - Help support the event and get prominent placement on the Great American Backyard Campout website and promotional materials.

Phillips Park Zoo



Phillips Park Zoo in Aurora

Phillips Park Zoo was voted one of the "10 Best Free Places To Take Your Kids This Summer" in 2009 by Chicago Parent Magazine.

Our Mission
It is our mission at the Phillips Park Zoo to provide a safe environment where students and visitors can gain a better understanding of the animal world and its environment through recreation and education, as well as providing professional care for the animals housed at the zoo, while promoting a positive image of the zoo and surrounding park, enhancing the quality of life.

Admission is free!

Zoo Hours

Phillips Park Zoo is open year round
Zoo Hours - 9:00 am to 5 pm daily.
The Reptile House is open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily.
Closed on Thanksgiving Day,Christmas Day and New Years Day

Download Zoo Map

Parent/Teacher Resources:
http://www.phillipsparkaurora.com/dnn/zoo/ZooInformation/ParentTeacherResources/tabid/193/Default.aspx

Phillips Park Zoo Scavenger Hunt:

See if you can find all of the answers to the following questions while visiting the Phillips Park Zoo! The clues all pertain to animals found specifically at the Phillips Park Zoo, and can be found at the various animal displays.

See if you can gather information about the animals on the Scavenger Hunt!

Download Scavenger Hunt

Download Scavenger Hunt Answers