We save land. We save rivers. Programs are offered pre-k through high school and developed to align with Next Gen- eration Science Standards, incorporating STEAM themes (Science, Technology, Engi- neering, Art or , and Math) and environmental stewardship. Topics can be Nature on the Farm customized to satisfy your curricular objectives. Youth Education Programs & Field Trips to McDonald Farm Middle and High School

Organic Farming in Action. Experience the working of our organic farm by taking a McDonald Farm in South Naperville, the “journey of a seed” tour and compare this process headquarters of The Conservation Foundation, is to other forms of agriculture. In season, taste our produce to see for yourself! an oasis in the suburbs that provides a unique field trip site for exploring native habitats as well Conservation in Action on the Farm. as a working organic farm! Tour the wind, energy, and rainwater conservation features at the farm and learn how you can incor- Our experienced educators are also available to porate ecosystem services into your home or visit your school to offer nature education school. relevant to your course of study. Be a Scientist. Become a citizen scientist by Programs are $60 for the first 10 students and $6 collecting scientific data on local butterflies, birds, water quality and more! for each additional child. Scholarships may be available based on need. Please contact us with your specific needs - Community Organizations we have a program for you!

NatureRx. All students are welcome at the McDonald Farm! Our new Sensory is partially accessible and has hosted multi-sensory Schedule your visit today! experiences for children of all abilities. Please con- tact us for a program tailored to the special needs Amy Phillips of your group. Manager of Youth Education

[email protected] The Conservation Foundation Scouting Extensions. Ask us about our 630-428-4500 x 113 10S404 Knoch Knolls Road scouting programs! Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Naperville, IL 60565 Scouts BSA specific programs are available to sup- plement badges and journeys. 630-428-4500 www.theconservationfoundation.org Youth Education Programs

Pre-K (Ages 3-6) Early Elementary (Grades K-2) Late Elementary (Grades 3-5)

Wild Animals. Explore different habitats at Insect Investigations. Take a look at Web of Life. Examine relationships among the farm and learn about the life cycle of wild insects up close. Learn of their great diversity various organisms in their environment by animals that call this place home. and the interdependent relationships they have observing and animal interactions in the with and other animals. prairie, wetland, and woodlands.

Green Thumbs. Discover how seeds grow, plant seeds to take home, and dig in the garden or Animal Adaptations. Investigate the Rocks and Fossils. Unearth the components bin. During farm season, explore how different ways wild animals have adapted to our of rock and soil formation through experiments and food is grown and taste a colorful variety of fruits area and learn how the structure of their bodies differentiate between sedimentary, metamorphic, and vegetables. helps them find food, shelter, and water in and igneous rocks. Explore the evolutionary record different ways. of biodiversity by investigating fossils.

Colors in Nature. Hunt for the variety of colors as you take a nature hike. Bring home your Energy Exchange. Play a game to own palette of nature’s colors. illustrate how energy on the planet starts with Earth’s Changing Surface. Set up

the sun and moves throughout all life. Take a experiments using the River Cutter Model to short hike through different ecosystems at the investigate the geoscience processes involved in the Observe the wonders of Time for Nature. farm and discover patterns of energy movement dynamic changes in the Earth’s surface. nature with your eyes, ears, nose and hands while in nature. exploring seasonal interests such as insects or wildflowers.

Seeds and Plants. Identify the parts of a Grocery Bag . Discover the plant and learn how seeds travel through their importance of organic agriculture and learn why Less is More. Learn new ways to use less ma- special adaptations. Investigate pollinator eating food grown locally helps your community terials and conserve nature for everyone. Bring and the planet. partnerships between plants and animals. home a craft made of recycled materials.

Patterns in Nature. Examine patterns Animal Architects. Explore the intricate found in different natural objects, from seeds to homes and habitats local animals create, and create your own habitat using natural materials. STEM Core Concepts leaves, and create a collage to bring home.

Water Quality and Ecosystem Health. Healthy Habitats. Explore nature with all Analyze the plants and animals specially adapted to of your senses and learn how local animals living in a wetland. Determine the health of the contribute to healthy habitat. water by identifying the presence of certain kinds of macroinvertebrates.

AG in ART in Nature’s Recyclers. Recognize the Programs tailored STEAM STEAM importance of decomposers in nature by delving Nature’s Heroes: A Taste of Mighty to your needs! into their microscopic world and discover their Acorns.™ Explore seasonal themes at the farm vital role in creating healthy soil. Learn how to or at a natural area near your school and get your start your own compost bin! hands dirty while working to restore healthy, native ECO habitats. Conscious NatureRx Exploratory Exploratory Spring Summer Autumn Winter