Ages 8+ (Will be assigned with kids of similar ages)
Mark DuBois and Na’im Salahuddin
Utilizing a discovery and inquiry-based approach to learning, this class reintroduces insects to students in a whole new light, inviting students to broaden and expand their perspective and understanding of these creatures, and build creative and critical thinking skills
Read MoreAges 7+ (Will be assigned with kids of similar ages)
Rocketeers will assemble and launch rockets from ready-made kits. They will learn how careful assembly procedures and safety practices lead to successful rocket flights.
Read MoreAges 7-11
You will learn how the monarch transforms through its various stages. Using photos and (hopefully) real live caterpillars, butterflies and everything in between – you will see examples of all evolutions as they grow from a tiny egg to a beautiful butterfly. You’ll learn so many things like: - how to Identify milkweed plants (the ONLY things monarchs eat as caterpillars) – how to find and identify the eggs and tiny caterpillars – how to tell male from female butterflies – and why their tongue is a long curly straw. You will also learn how to draw them, which will reinforce and help you remember everything you learn about these amazing creatures.
Read MoreAges 7+
A few hundred years ago, Illinois was covered mostly in expansive grassland habitats known as prairies. In this class, we’ll immerse ourselves in the Sun Foundation’s prairie and explore it’s science through hiking, activities and an animal encounter or two.
Read MoreAges 7+ (Will be assigned with students of similar ages)
Dr. Travis Wilcoxen
Many people are familiar with large fish that live in the Illinois River, but may not be as familiar with the many different kinds of small fish that make creeks and small streams their home. In this minor, we will use different types of nets and traps to survey sections of Crow Creek for small fish, such as shiners, darters and dace. Students will learn about the diet and behavior of each type of fish and how to identify them. Ages 7+
Read MorePee Wee • Ages 5-7
Amy Schroeder
In this class, students will create our very own masterpieces, trek though nature and explore science in the outdoors. We will use clay, paint, and other art materials to create art. Join us as we explore the marsh, forest, and trails on this exciting adventure. Gear up for a week of games, play-based learning, and fun while we capture the beauty around us!
Read MoreAges 8-12
Spend a week exploring the Sun Foundation’s natural spaces and the living things that build healthy ecosystems! In addition to plenty of hiking and science-based field activities, we’ll also build a mini museum collection of our favorite findings and research how they contribute to our environment.
Read MoreAges 8-12
We will explore the Sun Foundation property, looking for native reptiles and amphibians. We will show you how to find and identify animals. We will discuss what they eat and how to take care of them. You’ll get to catch, touch and hold them. Plan to get hot, wet and dirty! Please make sure to wear clothes that are appropriate. Class will be all day on Wednesday.
Read MorePee Wee • Ages 5-7
This class is an introduction to the Sun Foundation. Children will develop an appreciation for nature’s beauty and an understanding of their connection with the environment. Students will complete fun art projects, learn about nature, hike, play games, visit the marsh and look for fossils in the dry creek bed.
Read MoreAges 8-12
This class provides an introduction to a fascinating world that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Children will learn how to use several different types of microscopes. They will learn to sample, identify, and develop microscopy skills while studying the samples brought back from different sites.
Read MoreAges 10+
Rocketeers will build rockets made of common household materials. They will learn basic equations of rocket thrust, stability and trajectory. Then they will launch their rockets and evaluate the performance.
Read MorePee Wee • Ages 5–7
The youngest among us often notice the WONDER-full details of the natural world. This major is for those who love to make amazing discoveries right before their eyes! Join us as we explore the forest, marsh, grassland and creek. We’ll draw big inspiration from small wonders, like a caterpillar’s stripes or water flowing over pebbles – to sketch, paint and sculpt artistic treasures. There’ll be lots of games too. Come play and create with us!
Read MoreAges 7-11
Fish, Birds, Bugs, Bones and Boulders! Every day is an adventure! Spend Monday with John James Audubon catching, drawing and banding migrating birds. Tuesday we will meet Charles Darwin and catch bugs, explore geology and evolution. Wednesday is a day of fishing with Louis Agassiz. Thursday we will track animals, learn medicinal herbs, play Native Games and eat wild plants with Meriwether Lewis. Friday we will put it all together publishing our findings in an instant book that celebrates the wild life of the Sun Foundation!
Read More