The interdependence among all of nature includes YOU!
Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist--Main Entrance
1025 N. Smith St., South/Main Entrance, Palatine, IL 60067 · Get directions6 sessions from Fri, Sep 12, 2025 [Show]
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Cultivating Nature Connections
Min/max age: 2 courses (ages 5-9) and (ages 10-14)
Min/max enrollment numbers: 3/8
Fee/student/class: $12 Other supply fees: $20/quarter for supplies
Class will be held outdoors except in cases of heavy rain/thunderstorms or windchill below 20 degrees F.
This immersive, primarily outdoor class is designed for children ages 5–9 [10-14] years of age and offers rich, seasonally focused experiences in the natural environment surrounding CCUU. Blending art, science, and introspection, students will explore, observe, discuss, research, reflect, and collaborate as they build meaningful connections with the natural world—from the smallest details to the broader ecosystems.
Through child-led play and mentor-supported investigation, students will deepen their understanding of nature’s interconnectivity and their place within it. The program fosters creativity, confidence, problem-solving, and independence through active, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
Quarter 1 will focus on late summer and fall themes. Please be prepared for class to be held outdoors except in cases of heavy rain/thunderstorms or windchill temperatures below 20 degrees F.
Showcase: At the end of each quarter, we have a showcase at which students can perform , present, or display projects at 1:15 p.m. on the final Friday.
Any students interested in participating in the showcase who are not ordinarily in attendance at 1:15 pm should plan accordingly and communicate with the instructor.
Classes on 10/17 will follow a shortened schedule to allow for time for the showcase (Each class shortened by 5 minutes).
October 17th Shortened Schedule
Period 1: 10-10:45 am
Period 2: 10:55-11:35 am
Lunch: 11:35-12:25 pm
Period 3: 12:25-1:05 pm
Showcase: 1:15-2:00 pm
Instructor: Cathy McCauley
Appropriate Dress
Please dress your child in play clothes/outwear. Please pack a Ziploc bag with a complete spare change of clothes (including socks and underwear), labeled with the child’s name. Recalling the old saying that there is no bad weather, only bad clothing choices - please dress your child appropriately for the weather. We will be outside even when it is windy, cold and wet. Below are suggestions for clothing. These items are strongly encouraged to keep your child comfortable outside:
Fall gear: Waterproof pants/snow pants, winter hat, water-proof gloves, a scarf, and boots. Waterproof gear is strongly recommended. Layers are encouraged since fall weather can change throughout the day.
Winter gear: Winter coat/jacket, snow pants, winter hat, water-proof gloves, a scarf, and boots. Waterproof gear is strongly recommended. A base layer is also encouraged.
Spring gear: Waterproof pants/snow pants, warm coat/jacket, warm hat, water-proof gloves and rain/snow boots. Waterproof gear is strongly recommended. Layers are encouraged since spring weather can change throughout the day.
Summer gear: Clothing that keeps kids cool, sun/baseball hat, close-toed shoes. Please apply sunscreen prior to class.
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