Homeschoolers to discuss recycling during World War II

Homeschool families will have an opportunity to step back into the 1940s and imagine what it was like to collect scrap metal, rubber, aluminum, copper, iron, and cooking fat for the materials drives conducted during the war years. Children will also compare and contrast those efforts to the recycling that goes on today at a program called Homeschool Adventures, “Recycling: Then & Now,” set for Wednesday, April 1, from 1-3 p.m. at the Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson Street.

“I think it will be great for students to learn about material drives and rationing that supplied war industry,” said Philip Mohr, History Center curator. “It’s easy to see a connection to the recycling we all do every day. Considering the amount of modern waste, we can learn something from thrift during World War II.”

The History Center has been focusing its 2015 programs on aspects of World War II to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of the war. In this session, Mohr looks forward to teaching homeschool students why the U.S. government organized major wartime conservation and recycling efforts and required cities and states to meet quotas. In addition, the children will make a craft from recycled materials in honor of military veterans.

Homeschool Adventures are designed for children, ages 5-12, with an adult and last for two hours. The fee is $3 per child for non-members, $2 for members. For more information please call 847-391-5399 or visit desplaineshistory.org. When online, visitors are invited to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and become a member to receive updates, bulletins, and newsletters.

The Des Plaines History Center is supported by the City of Des Plaines, the Des Plaines Park District, its members, and other local business and community contributors.