PaleoJoe leads trip back in time to dinosaur age

It's hard to believe dinosaurs once roamed the earth, but for today's children who are advancing in a technology-driven world, it may be even harder for them to wrap their heads around the concept of specimens that have been extinct for millions of years.

Joe Kchodl, known as PaleoJoe, is on a mission to take kids back in time through his program, "Dinosaur Day with PaleoJoe." In conjunction with Naperville Public Library's DiNovember, a monthlong celebration of dinosaurs, PaleoJoe will present his children's program from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Drive.

During the program, Kchodl will discuss the geological forces that shaped the world, the Ice Age and dinosaurs, including tyrannosaurus rex and velociraptor.

"It is not just what is extinct, although it is always good to teach about what has happened before the present," Kchodl said. "It's about exciting the kids about some of the unknowns in life."

Kchodl also will showcase cast skulls, as well as other fossils and specimens ranging from 350 million to 15,000 years ago during the program, which is partially funded by a grant from the city of Naperville.

Children also will get a look into the history of fossils as Kchodl will discuss how fossils are formed and modern collecting techniques. The paleontologist and author has been presenting his shows throughout the country for more than 20 years.

"It is like Christmas every day - you never know what you may find, what discoveries lie just beneath the surface," he said. "There is always something neat to learn."