In the land of Illinois, sandwiched between Lake Michigan and the mighty Mississippi, a group of adventurous kids known as the Trekking Tadpoles embarked on hiking escapades. Illinois was their playground. From the bustling streets of Chicago, across the fertile prairies, to the lush Shawnee Forest, they hiked with glee, leaving no stone unturned. Leading the pack was an imaginary character, Captain Cornstalk. He was as tall as a skyscraper and as thin as a beanpole, with kernels for teeth and a husk for hair. Born from a popcorn kernel, he had popped into existence, fueled by the children's love for adventure and their affinity for IL's famed cornfields. "Listen up, Tadpoles!" Captain Cornstalk would declare, his voice rustling like corn leaves in the wind. His corn-silk hair fluttering, he'd point his cob finger in the direction of their chosen path. The kids, brimming with excitement and armed with their hiking boots and water bottles, followed their corny leader, chuckling at his corny jokes, whistling Illinois' state song, and relishing the exercise and fresh air. These pint-sized adventurers hiked through the year, in sunshine or snow, admiring the spring blossoms and the autumn hues. They discovered and named sites like ‘Popcorn Peak’ and ‘Kernel Creek,’ laughing at their shared corn-inspired humor. Each hike was a celebration of the state's scenery, a silly symphony of kids, and kernel-filled puns. In the grand land of Illinois, the Trekking Tadpoles and Captain Cornstalk filled each day with adventure, laughter, and memories, proving that with a bit of imagination and a love for the outdoors, every hike can be a corn-ucopia of fun!
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Mad Science of NE Phoenix is a leading provider of entertaining scientific enrichment activities for children. We are committed to making learning an enjoyable and engaging experience through our unique and interactive science activities. Our comprehensive educational programs include after-school classes, birthday celebrations, and specialized workshops. Furthermore, we also organize special events and summer camps to keep the passion for science burning throughout the year. At Mad Science of NE Phoenix, we firmly advocate for experiential learning. Our programs are meticulously designed to ignite children's innate curiosity and foster a lifelong interest in science. However, the fun doesn't stop there! Our programs seamlessly blend education and entertainment to make learning an exciting adventure for kids. At Mad Science of NE Phoenix, children get to explore the wonders of learning in the most thrilling way imaginable. Mad Science was established in 1985 in Montreal, Canada, by two brothers, Ariel and Ron Shlien. What started as a hobby of performing astonishing science experiments that captivated their neighborhood children, turned into a prospering business. Mad Science is now a global enrichment firm that brings the fascination of science in a hands-on manner to millions of children every year! Locally owned and managed by Adam Mendoza, Mad Science of N.E. Phoenix is proud to have spent over 20 years providing exhilarating STEM experiences to children across Arizona.
Skokie's Emily Oaks Nature Center and Preserve is the perfect place for families to explore the great outdoors! This 13-acre nature sanctuary is packed with native wildflowers, grasses, oaks, a two-acre pond, and trails. It's also home to a variety of urban wildlife, like Great Blue Herons, Coyotes, Flying Squirrels, Northern Water Snakes, Red Foxes and Cooper's Hawks. The center itself also features the Woodland Wander Inn, a fun interactive experience for kids. As if that wasn't enough, the center also offers classes and meeting rooms, plus special programs that help scouts earn badges. If you're interested, be sure to make reservations as soon as possible. With so much to explore, Emily Oaks Nature Center and Preserve is the perfect place for families to learn, grow, and make memories.