ABOUT WILLOW WOOD
NATURE PROGRAM
Our mission at Willow Wood Nature Program is to provide the central Illinois community with a play-based outdoor program, that supports children in their curiosities, development, and learning, while fostering environmental stewardship. We want to enrich children’s appreciation for nature while providing leadership and guidance as they get to explore and learn from the outdoors.
Willow Wood Nature Program is an ode to childhood memories of playing and exploring in a wooded area called Willow Wood. It’s no secret that children are spending significantly less time outdoors than they did just 30 years ago, and there is research upon research about the developmental benefits of quality outdoor time.
At Willow Wood Nature Program, we offer an outdoor play-based program for children ages 4-9, consisting of drop-off classes and classes where parents/guardians can stay. We are rooted in research and developmentally appropriate practice, so that we can provide families with an outdoor program that respects and supports children where they are at. We hope that you will join us for our classes so that you and your children can experience the joys and benefits that nature has to offer!
Summer classes
June-August 2025
1
Mondays 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
This summer, we are having classes at the Refuge Food Forest via the Normal Parks and Recreation!
Each day, children get to explore, play, and learn about the process of growing food, write and draw in their own nature journals, utilize discovery tools to expand their curiosities, build friendships, and reap the benefits of being outdoors!
2
Thursdays 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
This summer, we are having classes at the Refuge Food Forest via the Normal Parks and Recreation!
Each day, children get to explore, play, and learn about the process of growing food, write and draw in their own nature journals, utilize discovery tools to expand their curiosities, build friendships, and reap the benefits of being outdoors!
3
Fridays 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
This summer, we are having classes at the Refuge Food Forest via the Normal Parks and Recreation!
Each day, children get to explore, play, and learn about the process of growing food, write and draw in their own nature journals, utilize discovery tools to expand their curiosities, build friendships, and reap the benefits of being outdoors!