Bring the kids for science disguised as games at Lego Gone Wild Jun 15 at the Hickory Creek Forest Preserve, Hickory Creek Junction and stay at the nearby and affordable Motel 6 Chicago Hotel in Tinley Park!

That’s right, parents, just like at Easter and Christmas, just like the Tooth Fairy, we’re lying to your kid by luring him/her into a forest preserve on the pretext of playing with Legos. Then we’ll hike them, brainwash them, show them bugs, identify birds—and PLAY WITH LEGOS! Oh, the humanity!

The Forest Preserve is pairing your child’s favorite pastime activity, LEGO, with outdoor exploration. Travel to different forest preserve sites, explore hidden habitats with a naturalist, and then it’s time to get building. We will discover some hidden habitat gems using binoculars, bug boxes, insect nets and more. We will brainstorm the best way to recreate the habitat using LEGO bricks and discover just how all the pieces fit together in nature. The STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) strong aspect will be our little secret. The program will take place outdoors on natural surfaces across uneven terrain. The hike will be less than 1 mile. For ages 6 or older. Registration required two days before the program. $3/person

The Hickory Creek Forest Preserve at Hickory Creek Junction is in the Forest Preserve District of Will County, 11916 West Lincoln Highway, Mokena, IL You can register your kid for this outrageous science lesson by 708-946-2216 or go online to https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/ and follow the prompts.

The Motel 6 Chicago Hotel at Tinley Park, just minutes away from the Tri-State Tollway and the Lego Gone Wild program at Hickory Creek, features very affordable room rates, including special AAA and AARP discounts. Enjoy the free breakfast and fitness room. Free parking. Call the property direct at 708-371-5600.