At “Little Sprouts Camp,” preschoolers are introduced to the wonders of nature through stories, games and short explorations into the nearby woods. District naturalists will lead the search for butterflies, wildflowers, trees and more. “Little Sprouts Camp” is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. June 8-12. Early-bird registration (by April 15) is $85 per child. After April 15, registration is $110 per child.

“Week in the Woods Camps” are for kids entering first through sixth grade. With different themes each week, register for one weekly session or all six. Campers will be divided into two age groups: those entering grades 1-3, and those entering grades 4-6. Early-bird registration (by April 15) is $100 per child, per session. After April 15, registration is $125 per child, per session.

Week in the Woods dates and themes include:

Junior Scientists: This camp is all the investigative fun, minus the lab coat. Campers will gain scientific skills such as observation and measurement, while exploring the outdoors. Gadget gurus will love this camp, as we’ll use hand lenses, dissecting scopes, dip nets and plant presses to form our theories. We’ll sample pond life, learn about woodland animals, and discover prairie plants. Week in the Woods-Junior Scientists Camps are offered June 15-19 and July 6-10. Both sessions are 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

Nature’s Superheroes: In nature, there are lots of animals that perform amazing feats, and no cape is required! Kids will learn about the awesome adaptations of spiders, bats, snakes and more. We’ll search the woods, the creek, and the prairie to find real life examples of nature’s superheroes. Week in the Woods-Nature’s Superheroes Camps are offered June 22-26 and July 13-17. Both sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon.

Earn Your Naturalist Badge: Learn what it takes to be a naturalist, and earn the badge to prove it. Campers will hike forest preserve trails alongside District naturalists and learn to identify plants and animals. Through games and activities, the kids will have plenty of fun ways to explore. At the end of the week, each camper will receive an apprentice naturalist badge to acknowledge their accomplishment. Week in the Woods-Earn Your Naturalist Badge Camps are offered June 29 – July 3 and July 20-24. Each session runs Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon.

For those looking for an early-evening option, the Forest Preserve District offers “Twilight Camp,” for children entering grades 3-6. “Twilight Camp” offers the unique experience of exploring the woods and fields during dusk. Activities include naturalist-guided evening hikes through the woods, games and nature projects. The week culminates with a family campfire, complete with s’mores, storytelling, a night hike and stargazing. Early-bird registration (by April 15) is $85 per child. After April 15, registration is $110 per child.

All camps take place at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. Meet at Creek Bend Nature Center, each day.

For more information, or to register, call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com. To view a full roster of Forest Preserve nature programs, visit www.kaneforest.com.

SOURCE: Kane County Forest Preserve District