Little Explorers Program For Preschoolers Relaunched At Four Rivers

Parents with preschoolers who are looking to introduce their tots to nature can once again sign up for Little Explorers programs at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon.

The monthly themed program was canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic. And it remained dormant as extensive remodeling projects took place inside Four Rivers (including the installation of a 2,000-gallon aquarium).

But now Little Explorers has been relaunched for 2023.

The relaunched Little Explorers program is set for 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18; registration is required by Jan. 17. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The January theme is Colors of Winter. During the program, participants ages 3 to 5 will start out indoors reading a kids' book called “The Colors of Winter.” This will be followed by a craft involving painting with ice cubes.

“Then we will head outside for a walk and activity,” said Alexis Lyons, a Forest Preserve interpretive naturalist who will lead the program. “Participants should be prepared to get messy with either paint, snow or mud! And then we will head inside for free play and snowmen bowling.

The program is designed to get children outdoors in all weather conditions and experience the wonders of nature through walks, stories, hands-on activities and free play, Lyons added.

“The outdoors provides the perfect environment for the whole child’s development; physically, mentally socially and emotionally,” she said. “These programs offer an opportunity for like-minded families to come together, learn, and play in a nature-based setting. We are thrilled to have Little Explorers returning in January 2023."

Rivers of Color
In addition to relaunching Little Explorers, the January program ties into the Rivers of Color series being hosted by Four Rivers this year. The series of color-themed programs will lead up to the “Golden Opportunity: Botanical Illustration” exhibition from the Denver Botanic Gardens that will be at Four Rivers from Oct. 15 through Dec. 30.

Little Explorers is one of four monthly Forest Preserve programs aimed at preschoolers. Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook hosts Wild Child, Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville features WonderKids and Plum Creek Nature Center in Crete Township offers Nature Play Days. For more information on these programs, visit the Event Calendar.

For more information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.