About
Art and Science Kids includes time for children to hike the trails, jump in puddles, look at bugs, and engage with the natural world through play and curiosity. The program offers extended free play sessions, art activities, wildlife observations, singing songs, and daily rest. Children also engage with art and science activities, play in a fenced outdoor area, and practice early academics such as writing their names, mathematics, shapes, and colors.
• Ages: 3–12 years old
• Schedule: 12-week sessions in the spring and fall each year, with a Forest Fridays multi-age nature immersion program on Fridays and a kindergarten readiness block from 1pm to 3pm
Art and Science Kids has gradually shaped its activities over the last three years through the work of staff and volunteers. The organization follows a teaching philosophy that views teachers as guides and students as teachers also, in an environment where everyone is empowered to learn. Art and Science Kids is a grassroots organization offering programs designed with Illinois Valley kids in mind and serves children of all ages while working directly with local families, non-profit organizations, agencies, and public schools. East River Street Gardens, connected with Art and Science Kids, is a collaborative project between local schools, businesses, and families that transforms an abandoned swimming pool into a community garden open to the public every Saturday. Staff frequently attend local meetings with community development initiatives to discuss intervention strategies, education plans, and student advocacy, and the organization uses sponsorship programs and donations to include children from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds.
Last updated December 28, 2025.
• Ages: 3–12 years old
• Schedule: 12-week sessions in the spring and fall each year, with a Forest Fridays multi-age nature immersion program on Fridays and a kindergarten readiness block from 1pm to 3pm
Art and Science Kids has gradually shaped its activities over the last three years through the work of staff and volunteers. The organization follows a teaching philosophy that views teachers as guides and students as teachers also, in an environment where everyone is empowered to learn. Art and Science Kids is a grassroots organization offering programs designed with Illinois Valley kids in mind and serves children of all ages while working directly with local families, non-profit organizations, agencies, and public schools. East River Street Gardens, connected with Art and Science Kids, is a collaborative project between local schools, businesses, and families that transforms an abandoned swimming pool into a community garden open to the public every Saturday. Staff frequently attend local meetings with community development initiatives to discuss intervention strategies, education plans, and student advocacy, and the organization uses sponsorship programs and donations to include children from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds.
Last updated December 28, 2025.
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