Preschool Programs

Welcome Educators!

The Champaign County Forest Preserves provides exciting hands-on learning experiences for your students. Within our preserves or in your classroom, your students can learn about local history and the plants and animals native to Champaign County. Our staff members are eager to serve you and your curriculum!

Review our program offerings below and email or call today. Before contacting us please be prepared with the following information:

  • Your desired dates and additonal dates if that one is not available
  • Your grade level
  • Number of students
  • Accomodations needed for students/teachers
  • If you will be staying on site for lunch
  • Check bus/school schedules to avoid holidays and school activities

Environmental Programs
Reptiles

Learn all about the reptiles of Illinois! Through hands-on activities and interactive learning, children will discover the unique characteristics of snakes and turtles and gain an appreciation of these cold-blooded creatures as they meet our resident animals. 

Year-Round

Program Length: 1 hour

Birds

Explore the world of birds! Students will learn through dramatic play as they dress up like birds and participate in flying games! We will make nests, lay eggs and even peck at worms!

Year-Round

Program Length: 1 hour

Mammals

What warm-blooded, furry creatures can be found near your home, school, or in a park? Mammals! Explore hands-on materials and activities as we learn more about these fascinating animals. 

Year-Round

Program Length: 1 hour

Trees

From birds to squirrels to people -- we all need trees! Learn all about these important organisms through movement, hands-on sensory activities, and more! 

May-November

Program Length: 1 hour

Amphibians

Have a hoppin' good time learning all about frogs and toads! From singing in a frog chorus to turning a person into a frog, preschoolers will leave this program knowing a lot about native amphibians. 

Mid-April to Mid-October

Program Length: 1 hour

Insects

Preschoolers will learn about what makes insects unique as we participate in songs, games, and hands-on exploration. We'll even have the chance to dress up and act like bees! Children will gain a curiosity and appreciation for these tiny but essential creatures. 

April to November

Program Length: 1 hour

Historical Programs
Museum Discovery

Children will learn about the early inhabitants of the area through hands-on activities, interactions with artifacts and a walk through our Discovering Home exhibit. 

Plant Science Programs
Garden Friends

From seeds to weeds to centipedes, the garden is home to all. Explore the world of gardens and the life within through stories, planting, and hands-on activities. 

Contact

Cultural & Plant Science
Selena Gonzalez
[email protected]
(217) 586-2612

Environmental
Patrick Ahasic
[email protected]
(217) 896-2455

In-Classroom Programs

If your class cannot come out to us for a field trip, consider an in-class program. Our educators can tailor a visit to meet your classroom needs. Presentation length varies from thirty minutes to one hour per classroom. This experience could be scheduled for one class or multiple classes.