Through child-led nature play and exploration and developmentally appropriate activities such as storytelling and sharing time, Junior Expedition Programs offer young children the freedom to learn in an environment filled with wonder and new discoveries.
Activities are tailored to engage children’s curiosity and interests to encourage their social and emotional development, awaken curiosity, and develop a sense of responsibility and caring for the world around them.
Instructors: Samantha Benjamin, early childhood accessibility coordinator, The Morton Arboretum; Julie Kim, early childhood programs assistant, The Morton Arboretum; Julie Vandervort-Peterson, early childhood programs instructor, The Morton Arboretum
Age: Children ages 3 to 5 years
Course number: Y082
Instructors
Samantha Benjamin, early childhood programs accessibility coordinator, The Morton Arboretum
Samantha Benjamin has a background in special education and early childhood. She helps to make the Children’s Garden more accessible and enjoys creating opportunities for all children to explore and experience nature.
Julie Kim, early childhood programs assistant, The Morton Arboretum
Julie Kim assists in early childhood programs at the Arboretum and enjoys discovering the wonders of nature with young program participants. She loves sharing her passion for the outdoors and sustainability while supporting children in their interest in nature.
Julie Vandervort-Peterson, early childhood programs instructor, The Morton Arboretum
Julie Vandervort-Peterson is a longtime nature educator with a passion for helping young children discover the wonders of the outdoors. She encourages children’s natural curiosity and learning through stories, games, and nature play.
What to Know
This is a drop-off program held completely outdoors, weather permitting. Dress your young explorer for the weather.
Read the Junior Expedition Program Handbook for information on suggested clothing, program supplies, drop-off and pick-up procedures, and more.
Program Schedule
This program includes the following six meeting times.
Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, November 5, 2025, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Children’s Garden (parking lot P-1), East Side
