Do your kids love understanding and creating things, being in nature, and getting involved in hands on projects?   During this interactive, fun, and educational program, youth will be introduced to the basics of environmental engineering in collaboration with and at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area in Morris.

During this program, youth will learn about biomimicry (how engineers create solutions based on nature - think hook and loop fastener!), solar and wind energy, how prairie plants help the ecosystems, and even make their own mini solar powered cars using solar panels!!! 

The program curriculum is created for youth age 10-14.  However, youth age 8-9 can attend with adult supervision and youth 15-18 can attend with the understanding the curriculum and activities are designed for youth age 10-14 and we will have Teen Teachers helping teach the curriculum.

Date, time, and location - In the event of rain, the program will move to the University of Illinois Extension office in Morris, 4004 N Division St, Morris.  Exact topics subject to change pending participant interest and time.

Sunday, 10/1 at Goose Lake Prairie

If participants are unable to make one or more of the dates, they can request a take home packet for most of the activities.  Just let us know as soon as possible.   

Youth will be encouraged to enroll in fair projects summer 2024 as related to activities in this program.  This is not required but we'd LOVE to see what youth have learned!!! 

Registration information:

ACCOMMODATION? If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, email SLRange@illinois.edu at least two weeks before the program begins.

WEATHER - In the event of inclement weather (storms and heavy rain), the session will be converted to at home learning or moved to the Extension Office, where possible.  Notifications will be sent ASAP if inclement weather is predicted.

TEEN TEACHERS - We LOVE Teen Teachers and Volunteers!!!! Without them, we couldn't make these programs happen.  If you have a teen interested in arriving about early (see schedule above) to learn the knowledge & skills prior to each program and possibly doing a bit of at home pre-learning then helping teach, sign them up at no charge! 

VOLUNTEERS wanted! - Volunteers are wanted for anything from program prep to ensuring all participants sign in, and even to help teach!  Email Shannon Range at SLRange@illinois.edu for more details.

SCHOOLS, Libraries, Homeschool Groups, and Community Organizations - If you are interested in hosting this program through your school, many of the activities are directly tied to Next Generation Science Standards and/or Illinois Learning Standards.  Contact Shannon for details.

INSTRUCTOR - 4-H Youth Development Educator Shannon Range, SLRange@illinois.edu

We look forward to seeing you all and do not hesitate to reach out to me, Shannon, with any questions!!!!