Family Make-&-Take Sessions

October 2-3

Grow a Money Tree

Can you find the Guiana Chestnut tree, also called the money tree, growing inside the Conservatory? This fast-growing tree makes a great houseplant and brings wealth and good luck to a home.

October 9-10

Seed Quilts

Contribute to a community quilt made of seeds! Create a cardboard quilt square with a unique design of your own, then add it to the Children’s Garden Seed quilt.

October 16-17

Chicago Bug-a-lows

Use clay and twigs to build a miniature house for a pretend bug. Not a Chicago bungalow, but a bug-a-low!

October 23-24

Herbal Apple Cider

Get into the spirit of fall by making your own apple cider. Create a mulling spice bag from cloves, allspice, and cinnamon to steep in hot apple juice when you get home.

October 30

NO MAKE-AND-TAKE PROGRAM due to special event. Join us for ‘Creatures of the Night’ taking place all over the Conservatory, 12-3pm. This Halloween-themed event is a unique take on the season. Night dwelling animals have special adaptations-or “tricks”-that help them roam the dark. Come see us this day, when live nocturnal animals such as fruit bats, spiders and owls make a rare daytime appearance. Children and families will learn an adaptation trick and get a treat at each critter station. Other fun activities include spider plant planting, nectar cups, wormy apples, and more!

October 31

Spider Plantings

Although this plant looks like tiny spiders as it grows, it won't spin webs! Plant a cutting of a spider plant, then add a toy fly for fun.

November 6-7
Conservatory Lucky Charms
We need your help sorting out the plants of the Conservatory in this fun hands-on learning project. When we are all done, each participant will take home a special Conservatory charm necklace.

November 13-14
See-Through Seed Bracelets
Come add a seed bracelet to your jewelry box by making a special see-through seed bracelet in this seed exploration activity.