Get outside

Even in winter, nature is full of surprises—like lichen! Lichen isn’t a plant but a mix of fungus, algae, and sometimes cyanobacteria living together. It grows on trees, rocks, benches, and more, needing only air and sunlight. Lichen helps create soil and supports other life. Bundle up and go on a lichen hunt! Bring a magnifier, camera, and field guide to explore this tiny, colorful world all around you.

Dancing in the rain is more than just fun — it’s good for your body, brain and spirit. While storms with thunder and lightning require shelter, a safe, warm rain offers a chance to feel joy, be present and refresh your spirit. Dancing boosts mental health, relieves stress and reconnects you with the moment. So next time it rains safely, let go, dance freely and enjoy every drop — and maybe even spot a rainbow when it’s done.

Summer is perfect for digging in the dirt. Feel its texture, color and smell. Pretend to dig like animals such as birds, moles, worms or rabbits. Use tools or your hands to explore. Discover hidden treasures and create a mud museum. Play with mud pies, mud soup or build a dirt castle. When finished, fill the hole like an animal or with tools. You can even plant something before covering it up. Enjoy getting messy and creative in nature.

Create magical nature potions this October using jars, water, and natural items like leaves, dirt, and acorns. Use a stick as a wand, stir your mix, and activate it with imagination! Keep potions as spooky decorations but return them back to nature once completely finished. Record ingredients and effects in a “spell book” for future fun. Sample recipes include Owl Transfiguration, Butterfly Wing Enhancement, and Strength of a Bear.

Climbing trees is fun and builds strength, confidence, and problem-solving skills. Though some worry it’s risky, injuries are rare with safe practices. Pick strong trees like oaks, avoid damaged ones, and check for wildlife. Dress right, follow safety tips like the rule of three, and only climb trees you can get into and out of on your own. Make sure it’s allowed where you are. Most of all, enjoy the adventure and freedom tree climbing offers.

Windy spring days can be perfect for outdoor fun! Try flying kites, spinning pinwheels, or blowing bubbles. Race clouds, spread seeds like dandelions or milkweed, and listen to how wind sounds in different places. Get creative by building sailboats, making wind chimes, or dancing with homemade streamers. Use the wind to play, explore, and enjoy nature in new ways.

Owling is a fun winter adventure. In Will County, you might spot great horned, barred, barn or eastern screech owls. Dress warmly, stay quiet and be patient. Go out at dusk or night, leave flashlights off, and try your own yard or neighborhood. Don’t play owl calls or get too close—February is nesting season. Watch, listen and enjoy the stars while searching for these amazing birds.

Shadows form when light hits an object and is blocked, creating darkness behind it. Shadows can be useful, like shade on a hot day and telling time and direction as they shift with the sun. You can trace shadows to watch them change or play games like shadow tag. For some fun, be creative and try making hand shadows or puppets. Shadows let us explore light and movement.