Demonstrate real life science and build student skills
What is more fascinating than seeing a fully developed baby chick emerge from an egg? Just three weeks of incubation transforms a seemingly lifeless chicken egg into an active, living being.
This hands-on project for teachers in DuPage, Kane, and Kendall counties is designed to give your students the opportunity to hatch chicks in their own classroom. During the 21-day incubation period, students learn to prepare eggs, set up an incubator, record progress, turn eggs, and test eggs for fertility. The project aligns with state learning standards.
This program is hosted each spring for DuPage, Kane, and Kendall counties. The 2025 program registration is closed. Learn about the 2025 program and review a supply list.
Join the 2026 interest list here.
2025 IMPORTANT DATES
- Beginner training (online): Feb. 12 OR March 4 – 4:30-6:30 p.m.
- Advanced training (online): Feb. 13 OR March 6 – 4:30-6 p.m.
- Fertile egg pick-up: April 22, 2025
- Hatch: Week of May 12, 2025
COST
- Beginner Training via Zoom – $30 (eggs not included)
- Advanced Training via Zoom – $20(eggs not included)
- Fertile Egg Orders –
- $30 includes 2 dozen fertile eggs for the project, plus access to resources
- Due to supplier changes and demand, each educator will be limited to 2 dozen eggs per person/registration.
HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS
- 4-H provides training (offered online this year), classroom resources, and egg ordering services so that educators can bring embryology to their classes.
- Educators attend training, provide program equipment and supplies, teach and oversee the program for their students, and provide participant information and program evaluation data.
- This program is designed for those who teach in DuPage, Kane and Kendall Counties. To find another local program, contact your local Extension office.
For more information on this program in other counties, find your local office online or call:
- Lake: 847-223-8627
- McHenry: 815-338-3737
- Cook, Chicago: 773-768-7779
- Cook, North (Arlington Heights): 847-201-4176
- Cook, South (Matteson): 708-679-6889
- Will: 815-727-9296
- Grundy: 815-942-2725
