May 31, 2007
Openings remain for Touch of Nature programs
CARBONDALE, Ill. – It's not too late to sign children up for summer fun at Southern Illinois University Carbondale's beautiful Touch of Nature Environmental Center. The center's six nature camp weeks each focus on a specific theme. Children entering grades one-six will enjoy a wide variety of hands-on, interactive activities designed to increase ecological awareness and understanding.
"Plantopia-Oxygen and a place to live" is the theme for week one, June 4-8, while "Animal Adventures" highlights amazing animals June 11-15. In "Survival 101" from June 18 to June 22, participants will explore the ways Native Americans used the land to meet their basic needs. "Wonderful Water" showcases a whole world found within water June 25-29 and "Wildlife Workings" centers on the concepts and cycles that hold nature in balance July 2-3 and 5-6. Wrapping up the schedule is "Eco You!" July 9-13, as participants delve into planet Earth and focus on how to protect and enhance its health.
Trained professional staff members direct participants in safe, inspiring and innovative environmental activities from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day. Registration is on a first-come basis. The cost is $150 per week or $140 per week if registering for all six weeks. For more information about Touch of Nature's Environmental education program, contact Kate Hellgren, environmental educator, at 618-/453-1122, extension 250, or look online at www.ton.siu.edu.
Touch of Nature Environmental Center is located on 3,100 scenic acres along Little Grassy Lake. Touch of Nature is seven miles south of Carbondale on Giant City Road.