Educational Programs at Rockome
School and scout programs at Rockome Gardens: Amish in Illinois, broom making, insects, birds, natural dyes, the school house and 1845 Day on the Farm.
Educating at Rockome
Tell me and I will forget; Show me and I may remember; Involve me and I will understand (Native American Proverb)
Are you working on earning Girl or Boy Scout badges? Rockome is a great place to do so. We have many opportunities available. Please call us.
New at Rockome this year is the Rockome Learning Foundation. All programs offered are for students K-12 and will be tailored to fit the age of students. Programs are offered Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of each week. Rockome can supply a full day or half day of activity. Our programs are designed to provide both classroom as well as hands on instruction. These programs are accredited classes, meeting the Illinois State Standards and have been approved through the Regional Superintendent's Office.
Amish in Illinois. This program offers the opportunity to explore the cultural differences of the Amish and Mennonites. This is a basic introduction to Amish history and life style. (1 hour)
Broom Making Basics. Benjamin Franklin was instrumental in much of today's technology, but did you know he introduced the household broom? Join us as we explore the history of broomcorn as you learn how a broom is made, start to finish. (1 hour, materials $3/student)
The French in Illinois. Did you know there were French in Illinois as early as the 1600's? Narratives, timelines, and maps will enlighten participants of the first Europeans to reach Illinois. We will explore the life and work of these early fur traders. (30 minutes)
Animals Everywhere!: This program discusses animals native to our area, as well as those more exotic. With a visit to Rockome Gardens' petting zoo, students will learn what different animals eat, where they live and what covers their bodies. (1 hour)
Birds, Birds, Birds. While outdoors we will look for birds native to our area and discuss which birds are on the endangered list and which birds are nearing extinction. Handouts and worksheets will aid in recognition as well as give an opportunity to observe and record different birds. (1 hour)
Incredible Insects. Shadow box insects, a nature hike and work sheets will aid in identifying and learning the importance of many different types of insects. This program will heighten students' awareness of the biodiversity that surrounds us. Students will also learn the basics of insect collecting. (30 minutes)
Can You Dig It. A fun look at the science of Paleontology! Handouts, a hands-on look at fossils, and activities constructing fossils make this program an exciting introduction to the massive creatures that once roamed the earth. (45 minutes, materials $2/student)
Gold & Other Minerals. Catch the fever of the gold rush! While panning for "gold" in an authentic 1849 panning sluice, you will hear about the Gold Rush that started at Sutter's Mill. We will also explore other minerals, how they are mined, and their many uses today. (45 minutes, materials $4/student)
Looking at Erosion. Erosion constantly changes our landscape. It removes nutrients from the soil, resulting in diminished soil quality. During the program, we will conduct activities to explore various types of erosion and how it effects our environment. (45 minutes)
Making Natural Dyes. Did you know that a great source for natural dyes can be found right in your own back yard? Roots, nuts and flowers are just a few ways to get natural colors. This program will discuss how they can be used, and how you can experiment with dyes for yourself. (1 hour, materials $3/student)
Sensing Nature. When we take a walk, we rely on our sight to observe nature, but there's more than we see. Listen to the sounds, smell the fragrances and touch the textures. We will use our senses to explore the world around us here at Rockome. (45 minutes)
Take A Hike. Every walk in the woods is a different experience! The one thing you always see is trees! As we take our hike on the Rockome nature trail, we will discuss the different types of trees and bark, their uses, and how trees impact our environment. (1 hour)
School House Program. Rockome's School House program recreates a late 19th century school day. Your class will participate by role-playing the discipline of the era while practicing their lessons with materials such as McGuffy readers, dip pens and slates. During recess, the young scholars will play games of the period. Teachers choosing this program will receive a pre-program list of suggested reading material and when possible, children should wear clothing as close to period as possible. Contact Rockome for more information. (1-3 hours)
1845 Day on the Farm: Rockome welcomes 5th grade school classes to experience history in a new program that lets them "live" one day in the 19th century. This day is packed full of activities, from a simple introduction to the time period, daily chores, and period games! This is a very unique experience for 21st century children, especially those having no farm background. It is one they will never forget! (3 hours, materials $2/student)
Reservations. Reservations are required for all programs and should be made at least 2 weeks in advance. To make reservations, please contact Rockome.
Lunch Options. Rockome also offers a full restaurant featuring kid-friendly favorites, so you can plan a meal as a part of your day. Pricing is available upon request.
Special Needs. Rockome strives to provide a fun and educational experience for guests of all abilities. Please notify us if your group has anyone with special needs so that we may assist in making your visit enjoyable for everyone.
Payment. Pre-payment or a deposit is required for some programs and lunch. To receive a refund for pre-paid programs, cancellations must be made 72 hours prior to program.
activities_programs
Learning Centers & Kid Programs
Rockome is known for its beautiful gardens and rock formations. Because our visitors have enjoyed the beauty of the park for so long, we want to expand their outdoor experience even further.
The park spans over 200 acres, most of which is comprised of natural prairie and native crops. Nestled in the heart of gentle rolling hills and rivers, the area is teaming with wildlife; from the native flora and fauna to big range stock such as deer, elk and buffalo.
This year, we have prepared the pond for fishing and picnicking. At our outdoor store, we will sell all of the needed equipment for a day on the water, from picnic baskets to sunscreen. Just rent some fishing' poles, grab a basket and some snacks, and take the family outside for a perfect summer activity.
We've also added kayaking and horseback riding tours. Whether it's a gentle row down the Kaskaskia River or a trot down memory lane, you'll be glad you ventured into our great outdoors.
On our guided tours, guests can see a wide variety of native flora and fauna including deer, beautiful wildflowers, squirrels and many beautiful species of birds.
Other Features:
Lodging & Camping
Fishing
Kayaking
Horseback Riding
Rockome Outdoor Store
schooltours
A school trip should be educational but fun as well. Rockome can provide the young visitor with challenges for all of the senses as they tour the bakery and The Candy Store. A demonstration from the village blacksmith on Main Street or a visit to Elvan's Malt Shop for a step back in time and a thick malt won't soon be forgotten. Special lunch plans are available or students can bring their own lunches and eat in picnic areas.
All tours include:
Back to the Country talk from one of
our tour guides
Admission to the Rockome village
Train ride
Haunted cave
Free smells and candy samples
One future student admission pass
Reservation required prices per student vary call for details. Spring tours begin April 26, 27 & 28th.
During the months of May and June Wednesday Fridays 10 am 5 pm.
Reserve your tour by calling
Picnics, Parties & Reunions
Banquets & Meetings
Tea & Birthday Parties
Group & Motorcoach Tours
school_tours
During the months of May and June Wednesday
Fridays 10 am 5 pm.
Elvan's Soda Fountain
Candy Store
Harvest Time
schoolhouse
The Rockome School house is the perfect place to learn what education was like in the 1940's. This authentic, one room, country schoolhouse stands on Main Street, across the street from the Candy Shack & Bakery. Within its walls, the schoolhouse is set up just as it would have been, with a blackboard across the front wall and rows of desks for students to learn their reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Gardens
Farm House
Blucker Hall
Buggy Rides
Woodburning
Blacksmith Shop
Model Trains