In the peculiar state of Illinois, where skyscrapers dwell side by side with cornfields and where pizzas are as deep as a dinosaur's footprints, a secret league of super smart kids is on a mission. These young geniuses, known as the IL STEM/STEAM Squad, are certainly not your ordinary school-goers. They are the heart, brain, and spirit of the most exciting adventures in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Meet Sparky, the leader of the squad, a funny kid with hair that always stands on end, as if he had been holding a Van de Graaff generator all day long. He's a whiz at science experiments and can convert any simple kitchen item into a spectacular scientific apparatus. Robotina, our technology champion, can chat with computers in their language and makes robots dance to her tunes. When she's not busy programming, she's creating digital artwork that even Picasso would envy. Then there's Architect Albert, the engineering guru, who constructs impressive LEGO skyscrapers, as tall as his backyard squirrels can climb. He dreams in blueprints and 3D models. Doodlebug is our art virtuoso, who paints sunsets with a mathematical precision that would make Fibonacci proud. With crayons and calculators, she creates a magical fusion of art and math. The IL STEM/STEAM Squad is a force to be reckoned with. They might be young, they might be goofy, but when it comes to STEM/STEAM, they are the maestros. So next time you see a weird-looking contraption in your neighborhood or an odd-looking equation on the sidewalk, you know the IL STEM/STEAM Squad has been there, adding a dash of fun to learning and exploring.
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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.
With a total of 135 acres of fields, forests, marshes and streams, the area offers over three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails. In addition to these trails, visitors can explore the nature center, featuring natural history displays and helpful information. As if that weren’t enough, the area also features an 1880s living history farm that can be explored by the public free of charge. For families looking for a fun and educational adventure, Spring Valley is the perfect place. Kids can learn about nature and local history through exploration, discovery, observation and listening. The 135 acres of fields, forests, marshes and streams provide plenty of space for adventure. Visitors can also explore the nature center with its natural history displays and helpful information. The 1880s living history farm is the perfect way for parents and children to wind down after a long day of exploring. Best of all, admission to Spring Valley is free. Visitors of all ages will find something to do at Spring Valley. With 135 acres of fields, forests, marshes and streams, there is plenty of room for adventure. The area features over three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails and a nature center with natural history displays and information. The 1880s living history farm is the cherry on top, offering a unique insight into the past. Families can relax and enjoy all that Spring Valley has to offer without worrying about admission fees - as it is free to the public.