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The Evanston Ecology Center offers nature-themed birthday
party programs for children ages 4 years and older (see themes below).
Each program is a staff-led class involving nature-oriented games
and hands-on activities. Following this 45-minute to one-hour program,
the room is open for you to have treats, presents, and activities
of your own. Please contact us at 847/448-8256 or via email
to reserve your special birthday party today!
- Birthday
party prices are as follows: Resident: $175; Non-resident: $200;
EEA member: $150 (so sign up now
for membership in the EEA and get lots of other great discounts,
too!).
This includes the two hour building rental. A $25 non-refundable
deposit is required for reservations.
.
- Birthday
Party Programs are available uring the school year from September
to May. Hours of availability are 10:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through
Saturday. Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance.
Not all dates and times are available due to other Ecology Center
Programs.
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The Ecology Center classroom is used for the birthday party rental
. We have several six-foot tables and chairs. You are welcome
to come 1/2 hour early to decorate the room as you wish (please
no sequins, confetti, or piñatas). There are washrooms
and a drinking fountain, but there are no kitchen facilities available.
-
Alcoholic beverages and smoking are prohibited in the Ecology
Center. There is maximum of 15 children in addition to the birthday
girl or boy, and a ratio of 1 adult to 5 children is requested.
You are responsible for cleaning up after your portion of the
birthday party. We will clean up our supplies from the program
portion.
Discover some astounding facts about our flying
feathered friends, the birds! We will look at local songbirds, feathers,
nests, and make an edible bird nest to take home!
Get to know the most numerous of the Earth's
inhabitants, insects! Learn about their exciting lives and even
go on an insect scavenger hunt! Make your own bug to take home.
Learn about some of the wonderful animals that
call Evanston home. We'll even take out some of the Ecology Center's
critters for a visit. A set of rubber stamps will be used to make
a take home project.
Explore the secrets from
the Earth's past by looking at rocks and fossils and learning about
the animals that lived here long ago. Make your own fossil replica
to take home.
This
party is way out there! Learn about what's in our solar system,
celestial bodies and other things that are out there. Make your
own model comet to take home.
Learn
about Evanston's reptilian residents, who they are, how they live
and where they live. You'll even get to meet some reptiles up close!
Make your own reptile to take with you.
(ages
8 & up) Are you a survivor? See if you and your friends can find
your way through a compass course in the arboretum. You'll learn
how a compass works and how to use it. Each participant gets a certificate
of completion at the end of the course.
(ages 8 & up) Make amazing artwork with
nature-themed rubber stamps. Learn to use different techniques and
media to make create a wonderful finished product! Each child will
make a set of three cards to take home.
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Sonja Spider is looking for young helpers! Come to
the Arboretum to collect her misplaced eggs and exchange them for
small prizes. You'll have a great time learning about the different
spiders which live in our area. Activities and a craft follow the
egg hunt. Bring a basket or bag for collecting. A special area is
reserved for egg hunters ages 11?2 to 4 years. All attendees must
register in advance. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 1 1/2 years and older
Fee: $4.50 per person
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113130A8 |
March 22 |
Sa |
9-10am |
| 113130B8 |
March 22 |
Sa |
11am-Noon |
| 113130C8 |
March 22 |
Sa |
1-2pm |
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Join the Ecology Center for some festive activities
featuring music, earthly games, nifty crafts and organic food. Information
stations will be set up to help guide you to a smaller environmental
footprint. Bring the whole family to honor our home, sweet home!
This event is free! 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: All ages
Fee: Free
Length: 1 session
| Date |
Day |
Time |
| April 19 |
Sa |
1-4pm |
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Practice your three R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) by
finding a use for something that someone no longer needs. Our supporters
are providing gently-used articles for us to sell. Proceeds will
benefit the Evanston Environmental Association. Donations are welcome
April 21 through April 25; please call 847/448-8256 for details.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: All ages
Fee: Free
Length: 1 session
| Date |
Day |
Time |
| April 26 |
Sa |
8am-Noon |
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Don't miss this great event!
Sponsor: Evanston Garden Council
Days/Dates: Sat., May 17 and Sun., May 18
Times: Sat., 9am-4pm; Sun., 11am-4pm
Location: Independence Park, Central St. at Stewart St. (west of
Green Bay Rd.)
Admission: Free
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Help Keep Our Fishing Program Free! This event will
help support the popular Access to Fishing program for children.
The fun includes games, fishing clinics, prizes and even a fish
fry lunch! Please preregister; call the Ecology Center at 847/448-8256
for details.
Location: Lovelace Park
Age Level: All ages
Fee: $10 per person
Length: 1 session Class # Date Day Time
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112147A8 |
May 31 |
Sa |
10am-2pm |
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We've brought the fun of our campfire programs indoors
for the winter! We'll have activities, stories, songs, and, of course,
campfire snacks - everything except the real fire! This campfire
is all about why we depend on a flaming ball of gas! 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 2 and older with a caregiver
Fee per person: $3.50 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 142102C |
March 14 |
F |
7-8pm |
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We need helping hands to improve biodiversity in the
Ladd Arboretum and around the North Shore Channel by removing alien
plant species. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee: Free Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112136A8 |
April 12 |
Sa |
9am-Noon |
| 112136B8 |
May 4 |
Su |
9am-Noon |
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Join the Ecology Center staff for fun-filled campfires
with nature themes. Each evening includes stories, songs and, of
course, the ever-popular s'mores! Each campfire focuses on a different
creature of Lake Michigan. Topics include Macroinvertebrates, Piscivores,
Lake Invaders, and Lake Shore birds. Space is limited; pre-registration
is required by phone or in person at the Ecology Center. 847/448-8256.
Location: Council Ring at Grosse Point Lighthouse
Age Level: 2 years and older
Fee per person: $4 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
Theme |
| 113119A8 |
April 25 |
F |
7-8pm |
Macroinvertebrates |
| 113119B8 |
April 26 |
Sa |
7-8pm |
Macroinvertebrates |
| 113119C8 |
May 9 |
F |
7-8pm |
Piscivores |
| 113119D8 |
May 10 |
Sa |
7-8pm |
Piscivores |
| 113119E8 |
May 23 |
F |
7-8pm |
Lake Invaders |
| 113119F8 |
May 24 |
Sa |
7-8pm |
Lake Invaders |
| 113119G8 |
June 6 |
F |
7-8pm |
Lake Shore Birds |
| 113119H8 |
June 7 |
Sa |
7-8pm |
Lake Shore Birds |
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It's that time of year again when we pull ourselves
away from the TV and computer screens and notice that there's a
whole wonderful world that doesn't need to be plugged in! In correlation
with Earth Day, enjoy self-guided after-school activities that will
get you and your children outside, as well as an indoor projects
in the classroom. 847/448-8256.
Location: Ecology Center and Ladd Arboretum
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee: Free
Length: Three drop-in sessions
| Dates |
Day |
Time |
| April 21-24 |
M, Tu, Th |
3:30-5pm |
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This popular free program, which is sponsored by
the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, is a great way to
introduce your child age 5-15 to the "catch and release" process.
Equipment, bait and fishing expertise are provided! Access to Fishing
is held Saturdays from 9am-noon at Lovelace Park, Gross Point Road
at Thayer from May 3 through October 25. No license is needed for
those under age 16. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Questions?
Call 847/448-8256.
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Spring marks the return of "Canoe the Canal." Learn
the basic strokes and canoe safety before heading out on a fun canoe
trip! Children must be 5 years or older and there is a maximum of
2 adults and 2 children in one canoe. Please register by phone or
in person at the Ecology Center. Programs will be held unless there
is lightning; dress appropriately. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per person: $20 R/$22 NR; $17, EEA Member
Fee per child 5-11 years: $8 R/NR; $6, EEA Member
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113120A8 |
May 17 |
Sa |
9:30am-Noon |
| 113120B8 |
May 18 |
Su |
9:30am-Noon |
| 113120C8 |
May 18 |
Su |
1-3:30pm |
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A family campout is great adventure, and it doesn't
have to be stressful to plan! We'll show you what to bring and what
NOT to bring on your trip. You and your family will learn how to
set up your campsite, plan meals and be tuned into essential tips
for every camping trip! Participants will make "sizzle burgers"
(veggie available) over an open fire and even make a dessert that
goes beyond s'mores. Pre-registration required. 847/448-8256.
Location: Council Ring at Grosse Point Lighthouse
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per person: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112145A8 |
May 16 |
F |
6:30-8:30pm |
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We'll start off at the Ecology Center with safety
and canoe instruction, then head south to the Steak 'N' Shake on
Oakton Street, have lunch, rest, and return to the Ecology Center
full and happy! There is a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children in
one canoe. Please register by phone or in person at the Ecology
Center. Fee does not include the cost of the meal. Programs will
be held unless there is lightning; dress appropriately. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per person: $24 R/$26 NR; $21, EEA Member
Fee per child 5-11 years: $8 R/NR; $6, EEA Member
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113121A8 |
June 1 |
Su |
10am-3pm |
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In cooperation with the Northwest Earth Institute
(NWEI), the Ecology Center is hosting this innovative and informative
discussion course. The course includes a book of essays and excerpts
compiled by the NWEI. Each session allows for participants to help
facilitate discussion. Session topics include: a call to sustainability,
ecological principles, food, buying, communities, business and economy,
and visions and sustainability. Fee includes $20 course book. Preregistration
by March 4 is required. No class April 1. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Adult
Fee: $40 R or NR (includes book)
Length: 8 sessions
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113133A8 |
March 11-May 13 |
Tu |
6:30-8pm |
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With the right information, you can make some ecosmart
choices for your home. You'll learn tips and techniques for turning
the indoors green with alternative products for your home and learn
how they help the planet. You'll see samples and learn about area
resources to help you with your eco-choices. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Adult
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113134A8 |
March 27 |
Th |
6:30-8pm |
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Here's how you can help the environment and even
save a little money! Collecting rain water for use in the dry months
is an ancient practice that is still practical today. Learn the
basics of setting up and maintaining a rain barrel for your home.
Class will include style choices, placement and basic maintenance.
847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Adult
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113135A8 |
April 12 |
Sa |
2:30-4pm |
| 113135B8 |
April 24 |
Th |
6:30-8pm |
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Celebrate Earth Month by learning how to compost
and improve your soil! You'll be introduced to different techniques
of composting, as well as learn which items you should add to your
compost and which items to avoid. Bring your ideas and questions.
847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 14 & up
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class
# |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113132A8 |
April 17 |
Th |
6:30-8pm |
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Learn the basics from the best! John Jaminski of
the City of Evanston Parks Division returns to share his gardening
knowledge. "Beginning Gardening" will include the basics of starting
out and what to plant where. "Annuals and Perennials" will include
information about native plants, as well as choices for sun and
shade. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 16 years and older
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
Topic |
| 113128A8 |
May 14 |
W |
6:30-8pm |
Beginning Gardening |
| 113128B8 |
May 21 |
W |
6:30-8pm |
Annuals & Perennials |
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A garden in a container is an easy, low-maintenance
way to add color and interest to your yard, deck or balcony. Learn
tricks on what to put in your garden and how to maintain it through
the seasons. Starter plants and containers are included in the fee.
Questions? Please call 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 16 & up
Fee: $20 R or NR
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 113136A8 |
May 22 |
Th |
6:30-8pm |
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You and your child will learn the wonders of spring
through stories, songs, nature activities and walks in the Arboretum.
We'll use spring happenings as a tool to jump-start the basics,
such as numbers, letters, colors and more! Child must be two years
old by the first class. No class April 4, April 5. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 2 years and a caregiver
Fee per couple: $66 R or NR; $60, EEA Member
Length: 6 sessions
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112137A8 |
March 19-April 30 |
W |
6:30-7:30pm |
| 112137B8 |
March 20-May 1 |
Th |
10-11am |
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Spring is the time of the "Great Awakening!" So,
awaken your child's senses in this 6-week series about plants. How
do plants get so big when they start out so small? What do plants
really need to grow? What do animals have to do with it? There are
so many plant mysteries to be discovered by your child! Child must
be 3 years old on or before the first class. No class April 6. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 3-5 years and a caregiver
Fee per couple: $78 R or NR; $70, EEA Member
Length: 6 sessions
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112139A8 |
March 21-May 2 |
F |
10-11:30am |
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Introduce your child to the wonderful world of science!
You and your child will make amazing discoveries with age-appropriate
experiments, activities and projects. Topics vary; see below. Child
must be age 4 by the first class. Pre-registration required. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 4-6 years with a caregiver
Fee per couple: $12
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
Topic |
| 112138A8 |
March 13 |
Th |
6:30-7:30pm |
Outer Space |
| 112138B8 |
April 17 |
Th |
6:30-7:30pm |
Wet Weather |
| 112138C8 |
May 15 |
Th |
6:30-7:30pm |
Mammal Adaptations |
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A great Mother's Day idea! A garden stone is a wonderfully
creative way to add individual style to any garden plan. Make a
decorative stone that you can keep in your garden or give as a gift.
Fee includes all materials for one stone per couple. Pre-registration
is required. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 8 years and older
Fee per stone: $25 R or NR; $20 EEA member
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112142A8 |
May 1 |
Th |
6:30-8pm |
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Learn about some of the different species of bees
that are North American natives and the crisis that they now face.
You'll learn a few tips on how to build places for native bee species
to raise their young. Everyone will leave with a bee home they can
put in their yard to help out our little bee buds! 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per couple: $12
Length: 1 session
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112143A8 |
May 3 |
Sa |
3-4:30pm |
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In this new program, we'll take our usual science
investigations a little further. The club meets on the first Monday
of the month. Experiments, topics and "what's new" segments are
geared for those middle schoolers who are excited about science.
Each month features a new experiment from start to finish and we'll
even have snacks! 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Grades 6-8
Fee: $15 per child
Length: 6 sessions
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112146B8 |
April 7 |
M |
3:45-6pm |
| 112146C8 |
May 5 |
M |
3:45-6pm |
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The Ecology Center provides an educational, interactive
hands-on experience to fulfill science and nature requirements for
home-schooled children. Each week focuses on a different scientific
discipline; participants learn about various scientific processes
and how they relate to environmental issues. Then we'll put it all
together for our Home-School Science Expo! Pre-registration required.
No class April 1 & 2. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Varies, see below
Fee per child: $60
Length: 6 sessions
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
Age |
| 112134A8 |
Mar. 18-April 29 |
Tu |
10-11:30am |
9-12 |
| 112134B8 |
Mar. 19-April 30 |
W |
1-2:30pm |
6-8 |
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The Ecology Center will take your spring break camper
on a groovy ride to discover how erosion, weather and heat all shape
and change this "boogie wonderland" we call Earth. We'll even add
a little water, too! Games, crafts, and mini-experiments will fill
our days. Each day involves outside adventures in the Arboretum
and beyond, so dress for the weather! Extended care is available
from 4-6pm (information follows at right). 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Grades K-5
Fee per child: $180 R/NR
Length: 5 sessions
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112201A8 |
March 31-April 4 |
M-F |
8am-4pm |
For those signed up for our Spring Break mini-camp,
we offer extended day service with low-key activities such as board
games, reading and arts & crafts. Snacks will be provided. Please
indicate which days you will need when registering. 847/448-8256.
Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Grades K-5
Fee per child: $8 per day
Length: Choose up to five days
| Class # |
Date |
Day |
Time |
| 112202A8 |
March 31-April 4 |
M-F |
4-6pm |
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