BENTON – Each month, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rend Lake hosts a Small World environmental education program designed for children five years old and younger, at the Rend Lake Visitor Center. This popular series will continue in 2023 with old favorites and new program offerings.

Small World Programs are offered the third Tuesday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and are free to the public. Each month, a new theme is explored through a story, craft, and activity designed for children five years old and younger. While the programs are designed for a younger audience, all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Home school groups, pre-school groups, daycare facilities, and other groups are welcome to participate, but should register first by contacting the Rend Lake Project Office & Visitor Center at 618-724-2493. Schedules are available at the Rend Lake Project Office & Visitor Center and on Facebook.

2023 Small World Program Schedule
January 17: Winter Wonderland – Walk in a winter wonderland and learn all about snow.
February 21: Groundhog’s Shadows – Did the groundhog see his shadow? Let’s play with shadow puppets to find out!
March 21: Spring Back to Life – Plants are waking up after winter. Learn how they spring back to life.
April 18: Lights and Colors Fantastic – Let’s learn about rainbows and their colors.
May 16: Jr. Nature Craft Day – Time for crafting with materials from nature!
June 20: Let’s Go Fishing – Bring your fishing pole or borrow one from us. Let’s learn to fish!
July 18: Water Safety Fun in the Sun – Bring a beach towel! We will play water safety games outside.
August 15: Insect Detectives – Channel your best sleuthing skills for a bug hunt!
September 19: Fruits & Seeds – Walnuts, acorns, and buckeyes oh my! Join us for a fruitful lesson.
October 31: Trick or Treat the Visitor Center – Dress up in your favorite costume and meet some slithery critters at the Visitor Center.
November 21: Turkey Time – Gobble, gobble, it’s time to learn about our favorite fall bird.
December 19: Holiday Celebration – Make ornaments for your tree and meet Santa and other special friends.

(Information provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rend Lake.)