Spend some of this summer with 4-H in the suburbs

From weekly special interest clubs to partial-day workshops, 4-H has something to offer your family this summer.

SPIN - or special interest - Clubs meet regularly for at least six sessions and focus on a specific topic. Current offerings open for registration include one led by local Master Gardeners about dirt, bugs, plants, and trees, and an exotic birds group hosted by a bird rescue center.

"SPIN clubs are designed to encourage members to learn and grow in a specific area of study," said Deanna Roby, University of Illinois Extension Educator. "Our screened volunteers teach through fun, hands-on activities to build knowledge and skills."

If a weekly program doesn't fit your interest or schedule, Roby recommends checking out one of the many workshops available this summer.

"These workshops range from an hour long to half-a-day, and usually focus on a single project to learn, discuss and then complete to take home," said Roby. "For example, we are hosting several options in Yorkville, including fused glass, freezer jam, decoupage and more."

Youth do not need to be current 4-H members to register for any of these opportunities.

Multisession opportunities also are available, including welding in Aurora, food preservation and cooking workshops in Naperville, and ceramics in Yorkville.

In addition, 4-H of DuPage, Kane and Kendall Counties also is partnering with Camp Shaw-Waw-Nas-See for two science and technology overnight camp experiences this summer.

"We are hosting a weeklong camp focused on environmental science this June, and one featuring robotics and technology in July," said Donna Nuger, University of Illinois Extension Educator. "Each day will incorporate focused science curriculum, as well as time for classic camp experiences, such as archery, swimming and hiking."

To learn more about any of these opportunities, visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk/4hsummer. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact the Extension office at least two weeks prior to the start date.

University of Illinois Extension provides educational programs and research-based information to help Illinois residents improve their quality of life, develop skills and solve problems.

For more information on University of Illinois Extension programs in your county, visit web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk.