Maple Sugar programs for youth groups at Spring Valley

Schaumburg Park District is offering staff-led programs on the American tradition of maple sugaring for schools, scouts and other organized youth groups at Spring Valley Nature Center, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road.

The educational and hands-on programs teach children how maple trees are tapped and how sap is collected to make maple syrup and sugar. Participants will hand drill a log and pound in a metal spile, simulating the process used to tap the trees. Children will observe sap being boiled into syrup and compare the taste of real maple syrup with commercial pancake syrup. Programs for younger children include a short puppet show.

Programs last 1.5 hours and are available now until March 31. Reservations are required at least two weeks prior to the desired program date. The fee is $4.75 per participant with a minimum group fee of $71.25.

Spring Valley offers youth programs on a variety of topics throughout the year. Information on programs is available at www.parkfun.com.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (847) 985-2100 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.

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