for immediate release

Space Still Available in Camp CBG, Where Science, Nature and Fun Meet

Discounted Registration Through May 31

Media Only:
Julie McCaffrey
(847) 835-8213, direct
jmccaffrey@chicagobotanic.org

GLENCOE, Ill. (April 22, 2009)—It's not too late to register early for the Chicago Botanic Garden's Camp CBG, offering a unique chance to engage children in scientific exploration in a natural environment. Weeklong sessions are offered from June 15 through August 14. Experienced, professional teachers lead camp sessions with hands-on science, gardening, art, nature and outdoor explorations for full or half-day options. Early bloomer registration is offered at a discounted price through May 31.

Camp CBG is a summer day camp that brings science alive with an interdisciplinary approach that emphasizes literacy, reading, math, social studies, culture and art. Last year, more than 1,500 children, ages 2 to 12, participated in learning experiences grounded in the real world setting provided by the Garden’s 385 acres of diverse landscapes, gardens and native habitats.

The popularity of Camp CBG is driven by its high quality instruction provided by certified teachers. Two and three year-olds discover how to garden using child-sized tools, or will become small scientists by performing basic investigations. Four- and five year-olds learn about amphibians or insects, or become artists by using dyes from nature. Six- and seven year-olds learn how to help the environment with worms, or go on a treasure hunt to develop problem solving and map reading skills. Children, ages eight and nine, practice using basic scientific equipment, learning about “amazing adaptation,” or how to “survive outdoors.” Students ages 10-12 have opportunities to engage in science camp and can learn about ecology, art, chemistry and plants, and can earn a Junior Scientist certificate.

Early bloomer registration for half-day camps (before May 31) is $170; Chicago Botanic Garden members pay $145. Regular registration for half-day camps (after June 1) is $180; Chicago Botanic Garden members pay $155. Early bloomer registration for full-day camps (before May 31) is $345; Chicago Botanic Garden members pay $300. Regular registration for full-day camps (after June 1) is $375; Chicago Botanic Garden members pay $325.

Online registration is now available. For information and registration, visit www.chicagobotanic.org/camp, or call (847) 835-6950.

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Editors, please note: The Chicago Botanic Garden's newsroom is online at www.chicagobotanic.org/pr. For digital images, contact Julie McCaffrey at (847) 835-8213 or at jmccaffrey@chicagobotanic.org.

The Chicago Botanic Garden, one of the green treasures of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, is a 385-acre living plant museum featuring 23 distinct display gardens surrounded by lakes, as well as a prairie and woodlands. With events, programs and activities for all ages, the Garden is open every day of the year. Admission is free; select event fees apply. Parking is $20 per car; free for Garden members. The Garden is located at 1000 Lake Cook Road in Glencoe, Ill. Visit www.chicagobotanic.org, or call (847) 835-5440 for seasonal hours, images of the Garden and commuter transportation information.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is managed by the Chicago Horticultural Society. It opened to the public in 1972 and is home to the Joseph Regenstein, Jr. School of the Chicago Botanic Garden, offering a broad array of adult classes in plant science, landscape design and gardening arts. Through the Division of Plant Science and Conservation, Garden scientists work on plant conservation, research and environmental initiatives that have global impact. The Center for Teaching and Learning brings the wonder of nature and plants to children, teens and teachers. The Garden's Horticultural Therapy and Community Gardening programs provide nationally recognized community outreach and service programs. A program of the Chicago Botanic Garden, Windy City Harvest is an organic vegetable and plant production enterprise that provides instruction in sustainable horticulture and urban agriculture to residents of Chicago’s North Lawndale and West Side neighborhoods.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is accredited by the American Association of Museums and is a member of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA). The Chicago Botanic Garden is also host to Botanic Gardens Conservation International-U.S., and a member of the Center for Plant Conservation. In 2006, the Chicago Botanic Garden received the Award for Garden Excellence, given yearly by the APGA and Horticulture magazine to a public garden that exemplifies the highest standards of horticultural practices and has shown a commitment to supporting and demonstrating best gardening practices.