In the heart of the U.S. is a state, called Illinois, often known as the "Prairie State". Here, it is as if Mother Nature has her own special paintbrush, changing the scenery with every season. From the twinkling snow of Chicago winters to the golden hues of the Harvest season, Illinois is a beauty to behold. Now, imagine a group of children from this very state who have embarked on a curious adventure, not into a magic forest or a fairy land, but into the humble, messy, utterly magnificent world of gardening. These are the Green Thumb Squad of Illinois, a team of young soil samurais, tackling any weed that dares to pop its head up and whispering sweet compliments to the tomato plants to get them to blush a rosy red. Their leader is none other than the legendary Sir Shovel-a-Lot, a garden gnome with a bright blue hat and a twinkle in his eye that outshines the morning dew. Sir Shovel-a-Lot, with his magical shovel, guides the Green Thumb Squad, teaching them the secrets of the earth and the stories of every seed. He makes the tough work of gardening giggle-worthy, making funny faces when he digs up earthworms and narrating hilarious tales of battling 'evil' garden pests. So, if you ever find yourself in Illinois, keep an eye out for the Green Thumb Squad and their magical garden, where laughter grows like a sunflower in the sunshine and where every child learns that with a seed of hope and a dash of fun, miracles can bloom beneath their very hands.
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The Happy Hive is an inclusive play space designed to spark joy and connection for every child. With a special focus on comfort and accessibility for neurodivergent kids, our environment welcomes children of all abilities to explore, move, and create at their own pace. From climbing walls, swings, and zip lines to dedicated zones for pretend play and art, The Happy Hive offers both high-energy fun and creative outlets. While we cater to children ages 1-13 for neurotypical kids, we have no age limit when it comes to kids with special needs—because play should have no boundaries. At The Happy Hive, we believe every child deserves a space where they can feel safe, included, and free to be themselves.
At Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, you and your family can experience the beauty of nature year-round. Enjoy the changing colors of the fall foliage, snow-covered trees in the winter, wildflowers in the spring, and summertime amphibians. There's something to explore any time of year! The center provides two ponds, acres of woodland, a mile of looped trails, and an interactive nature center, making it a great place to relax, recreate, and learn. You can even take the wheelchair-accessible trail to the pond and meadow. Come explore the natural wonders of Hawthorne Hill Nature Center with your family!