 The natural world can be one of our greatest teaching tools. Young
children can learn in a variety of ways when given the opportunity
to connect with nature. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources
has produced "Field Trip Packs" that are designed to encourage
nature exploration by children in pre-kindergarten through third
grade.Each backpack contains hands-on equipment such as
magnifying glasses, insect observation containers, a plant press,
binoculars, a dip net, a bird call, a trowel, forceps, a sieve, a
compass and an aluminum observation pan. The bird song identifier
can help students recognize the songs of common birds. Field guides
are included, as are suggestions to teachers for introducing
children to nature.
"Field Trip Packs" are available for loan from more than 200
locations statewide. They are perfect for teachers, home-schooling
educators, families and youth group leaders to use.
Dickson Mounds Museum in Lewistown is a lending location for the
packs. Loan reservations may be made by contacting Christa
Christensen at 309-547-3721 or
cchristensen@museum.state.il.us. A two-week loan period maximum
is suggested. There is no fee to borrow and use the pack.
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For more lending locations and to see the pack and its content list,
visit
http://dnr.state.il.us/education/fieldtrippack.htm.
The Illinois State Museum -- Dickson Mounds is located between
Lewistown and Havana, off Illinois Routes 78 and 97. The museum is
open free to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. Tours
and special programs are available for groups with reservations. For
more information, call 309-547-3721 or TTY 217-782-9175, or visit
the museum's website at
www.experiencedicksonmounds.com. Remember to like Illinois State
Museum-Dickson Mounds on Facebook.
[Text from file received from
Dickson Mounds Museum]
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