FREEPORT, Ill – Join the University of Illinois Extension for Wee Naturalists (Wee Nats) a fun, interactive program for youth ages 4-7, where they will learn about different environmental education topics through a story, activity, craft, and hike. University of Illinois Extension 4-H Youth Educator, Kelly Lafferty, will host Wee Nats the first Saturday of the month at the University of Illinois Extension located in building R on the Highland Community College Campus, 2998 W. Pearl City Road, Freeport (use parking lot B). Each program will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and an adult must stay with the youth during the program. Please dress according to the weather as we will be spending time out in nature.

Dates and Topics

Oct. 1: Autumn: Youth will learn to recognize signs of autumn and see how nature starts to change

Nov. 5: Turkeys:  Youth will learn about habitats and behavior of turkeys

Dec. 3: Senses: Youth will discover their surroundings and nature by using their 5 senses

Jan. 7: Hibernation:  Youth will learn why animals hibernate out in nature

Feb. 4: Groundhogs:  Youth will learn about groundhogs and how they can tell if spring will be early or late (shadows)

Mar. 4: Signs of Spring: Youth will recognize the signs of spring by going on a hike; plus learn about spring babies being born in the spring

April 1: April Showers: Youth will learn the importance of rain and why we need water

May 6: Insects: Youth will learn about insects—such as body parts, eating, habitats, defense

Registration is suggested and can be completed on-line at go.illinois.edu/jsw or by calling University of Illinois Extension at (815) 235-4125. Registration is $5 per participant.