University of Illinois Extension is now offering free take home kits through the Knox County office. These kits are developed for children and provide teachers, parents and caregivers an easy way to engage their children in meaningful learning experiences about the world around them.
The kits are developed by Extension professionals as well as Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteers. Each kit contain materials, complete instructions and tips for engaging students in the activities.
Wendy Ferguson, horticulture program coordinator said, “The take home kits are a way for children to explore the world around them through hands on activities. Each quarter, new kits will be available. Our Master Gardener and Master Naturalist volunteers are excited to have children in Knox County and beyond be able to use the kits.”
Four different kits will be offered each quarter. The kits available through December 18, 2020 are:
- Anatomy of Insects: (For ages PreK – 3rd grade) Learn the parts of an insect through this quick and fun craft project.
- Nature Journaling: (For all ages) Explore and observe just like Lewis & Clark! Record what you see in your very own handmade nature journal.
- Fall Leaves: (For ages PreK – 4th grade) Collect leaves then discover their similarities and differences by making leaf rubbings.
- Winter Sowing Greenhouse: (For all ages) Find out how to support Monarch butterflies by growing milkweed plants. Create your own mini-greenhouse out of a water bottle.
To order your kits or to learn more, contact Wendy Ferguson, Horticulture Program Coordinator at the Knox County Extension Office, (309) 342-5108 or email wendyf@illinois.edu. Drive by pick up is available (safety guidelines permitting). Quantities for the take home kits are limited. New winter kits will be announced the week of December 14, 2020 with pick-ups starting January 8, 2020.
SOURCE: Wendy Ferguson, Horticulture Program Coordinator, Illinois Extension
***Report Courtesy of the University of Illinois Extension***
