Unplug Before School Starts

August hits differently.

The sun’s still shining, but there’s a quiet shift in the air. Backpacks start popping up in stores, school emails begin to trickle in, and moms across Chicagoland feel that familiar mix of relief and dread — summer is almost over.

But before the routines return, there’s a sweet spot in August — a window of time that’s perfect for kids to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with nature. Unplug before school starts!

🌾 Why Kids Need a Nature Reset

After a summer of screen time, road trips, and busy schedules, many kids need more than just school supplies to feel ready for the classroom.

What they need is a reset — mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Time outdoors helps:

• Improve focus and attention

• Reduce anxiety and stress

• Boost creativity and imagination

• Strengthen emotional regulation

• Build resilience and problem-solving skills

Nature doesn’t overwhelm. It invites. It grounds. It gives kids space to explore, move, breathe, and be themselves — something every child deserves before returning to a structured environment.

🐓 From Classroom to Chicken Coop

At Honey Bee Gardens Farm, we believe learning doesn’t stop when summer starts — it just changes shape.

Our August youth programs are designed to gently guide kids back into a rhythm while letting them enjoy the freedom of the outdoors. Whether they’re feeding the goats, harvesting veggies, building garden crafts, or exploring mini science lessons in the soil, children are learning, moving, and growing in real, tangible ways.

And they’re having a lot of fun doing it!

“It’s the only program my daughter didn’t want to leave. She came home full of stories and dirt — and asked to go back the next day."

Megan

Downers Grove mom

🌻 One Last Adventure Before the Bell Rings

Let your child spend their last summer days exploring nature, connecting with animals, making friends, and building confidence — all without a screen in sight.

Because sometimes, the best way to prepare for school… is to spend a little more time outside of it.