Introduction

Before you register, please keep in mind... 
  • TIME COMMITMENT
    • TRAINING - NEW Teachers must attend a 3 hour training in Joliet on Wednesday, April 1 from 5-8pm.  The training is $25 and includes a folder with all the handouts and 2 dozen eggs (to be picked up at a later date).
    • SETUP - You will have to setup and test your incubator prior to picking up the eggs.
    • EGG PICKUP - During program registration, you will select the date and time of egg pickup. 
    • EGG TURNING - From the time you pickup the eggs to the time they hatch, it's 3 weeks (give or take a day or two).  During the incubation period (3 weeks), the eggs will need to be turned 2-3 times (3 is best) each day to include weekends.  Do NOT turn eggs the last 3 days before hatching.  If the eggs are not turned, the yolk may stick to the shell and the embryo will die.  You can also purchase an automatic egg turner.
    • LONG-TERM CARE PROVIDER - Teachers are responsible for transporting their chicks to a long-term care provider.
  • COST
    • We will provide you with:
      • Fertilized eggs (number according to what you order during registration) from the University of Illinois for $10/dozen.  Each teacher typically gets two dozen eggs.
      • Starter food that should last a couple days
      • List of long-term chick care providers.  Teachers arrange for delivery to the care providers.
      • A folder with handouts to include the Power Points used during training
    • Teachers must provide their own:
      • Incubator with the following: 
        • Thermometers (more than one – prefer analog AND digital to make reading easier for youth)
        • Hydrometer to measure humidity
        • Handi wipes to place under the eggs once they start hatching (see example)
        • Optional egg turner
      • Optional mini-LED flash light for candling (viewing the chick in the egg) purposes (bright but no heat)
      • Brooder box (as simple as a storage bin or commercial one) for keeping baby chicks with the following:
        • Light with incandescent bulb (NOT LED due to heat)
        • Bedding (ensure plenty of bedding)
        • Chick feeder
        • Chick waterer