Compost can be used to feed plants in your yard or house. Make a mini composter out of a jar or plastic bottle. For instructions and more composting activities, click on the button below.
Venture into your backyard to look for signs animal visitors might have left. Click the button below for a wildlife guide to help identify what you found.
Printmaking is an art that involves making a plate or block that can be used to print (or stamp) an image. Use objects around your house to print a design on paper. For more instructions, click on the button below.
Binoculars (even without lenses that make things appear closer) help you focus on seeing something. For instructions on how to make your own at home, click on the button below.
A habitat is a place or environment where an animal, plant or other organism lives. What kinds of habitats do you see in your neighborhood? It might be a tree, garden, or pond. Record your observations in a notebook or take a photo. Just be sure you don’t disturb the animal or plants in the habitat when you make your observations.
Reusing and recycling are two great ways to keep trash out of the landfill. Take a look through your recycling bin. What could you use to create something new? You might create a cardboard house for your pet, a board game, or even a bird feeder. You’re only limited by your imagination.
Take a walk in your backyard or neighborhood to gather leaves, twigs, nuts, etc. An insect has 6 legs, 3 body parts, 2 antennas, and sometimes wings. Once you make your insect, you can glue it to paper or let it blow away in the wind outside.
I spy with my little eye all the colors of the rainbow. Go on a hunt through your neighborhood or your house to see if you can find something for every color.
If a dead tree can safely be left standing, it can still serve as an important habitat. Click the button below to learn more about backyard habitats.
For more recycled activities and crafts check out the Museum's Recycled Play Day Pinterest Page.
Discover more about Illinois Birds with the Department of Natural Resources activity book.
Click the button below for information about Springfield area recycling, or contact your local government or waste services provider to see what is available in your city.