Download a class registration form to print and fill out. You can mail it back to us, or register by phone at (815) 963-6769.
Check out our comprehensive calendar of classes and events, all in one place!
Bring your child to Discovery Center Museum for memorable and exciting learning experiences. We can accommodate small groups as well as individual children, and we offer a wide range of schedules and themes.
Advanced registration and payments are required for participation in all Home School classes.
Please note that admission to and exploration of Discovery Center Museum itself are separate from the Home School classes.
Let these tailored classes enhance your science curriculum studies. Preregistration required. To register, call 815-963-6769 or drop by the Discovery Center office during normal business hours. Payment must accompany registration. Class registration opens September 1 for members, September 8 for Public. Class fees: $11 Members / $13 Public; ages 7 and up. Registration closes 5:00 pm Friday of the week before class.
Sun Spotters
Solar flares and sunpots are just the beginning as we explore the inner and outer workings of the miasma of plasma which we call the sun. Make a fusion model, compare other stars to our closest star, and investigate what current space missions can tell us about the sun.
Wednesday, October 20; 11:00 am-12:30 pm
It’s Element-ary
Learn about atoms and molecules and check out some chemical changes as you make energy from oxygen, sizzle calcium, and test for other elements in this amazing chemistry class.
Wednesday, November 17; 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Power for Potential
Toys you build in this class wind themselves up to aid your exploration of physical and mechanical energy. Find out what makes things go and bring home your creations for more learning fun.
Wednesday, December 8; 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Afterschool Classes
RCX: Intro to Lego Robotics
Join science expert Don Swanson to develop and polish the skills needed to build and program robots. Explore the workings of motors and sensors as you assemble machines that can walk, draw, and find their own way. Use a computer to program your robot to move, react, and make sounds to solve challenges. Limited enrollment. Ages 11 to adult. Above grade-level performance for math and science (ISAT/ACT) or instructor approval required. This 10-week class is held each Wednesday, 4:30-6:30 pm; October 6 through December 15 (skip November 24). Members $125 / Public $140
Family classes:
Moms and dads and grandparents, spend some fun learning time with your youngsters! One adult required for every 3 children. Ages and fees vary by topic.
Your Nose Knows
Manufacture mucus and find out why boogers turn green. Discover the sense behind sneezing, and snack on snot. Then head to the Grossology exhibit for more nasal ed-ventures on your own. Admission to “Grossology” is included.
Sunday, October 10; 1:30-2:30 pm
Suggested ages: 7 and up
Children: $11 members / $13 public; Adults $5 members / $7 public
That Makes Me Sick!
Get hands-on with the ins and “outs” of eating. Discover which intestinal formula triggers diarrhea. Model your digestive system, fabricate farts, and see what puts the eww in poo. (No giggling, please.) Complete your gastric escapades with a visit to Grossology. Admission to “Grossology” is included.
Tuesday, December 28; 6:30-8:30 pm
Suggested ages: 7 and up
Children: $11 members / $13 public; Adults $5 members / $7 public
Gingerbread House
Decorate a Gingerbread House to take home! We supply the house and all the tools and trimmings, plus clean up all the mess – you get all the fun and the finished masterpiece. Sampling is encouraged in this hands-on class about structures, sticky things, and art.
Suggested ages: 5 and up
Sunday, November 28; 1:30-3:00
First child per family (includes one gingerbread house): Members $18 / Public $22
Each additional child: Members $4 / Public $6;
Adults no charge
Additional gingerbread houses are available for $12 each
