Born Learning Trails

Did you know that 90 percent of our brains are “hard-wired” by age 5?

Early learning is a critical part of childhood development—and it can happen anywhere, at any time. That’s why we developed United Way Born Learning Trails.

The Born Learning Trail turns everyday experiences into teachable moments

This interactive, paved pathway contains signs in English and Spanish with instructions for simple games that will turn an excursion at the park into fun learning moments for young children.

The trail’s theme of Watch! Stop! Learn! Play! encourages parents and caregivers to follow the child’s lead, building the child’s curiosity and confidence, and reinforces learning opportunities present in everyday life.

The Born Learning Trail supports language, literacy and social skills development, and reminds us that learning can be fun!

Why Born Learning Trails?

We know increased investment in pre-K development fosters healthy growth, decreasing the likelihood of children being affected by various other adversities later on in life. Because of the power of early learning, United Way is making big investments in improving Early Grade Level Success. Born Learning Trails are a great and FREE early learning resource for families!

 

​Visit a Born Learning Trail

*Indicates English only trail

Champaign

*Beardsley Park, Champaign

1006 N. Walnut St., Champaign
Sponsored by Emerging Community Leaders, Barham Benefit Group and the Champaign Park District

Human Kinetics Park, Champaign - New in 2024!

1501 N. Market St., Champaign
Sponsored by Human Kinetics

Garden Hills Park, Champaign

1701 Bloomington Rd., Champaign
Sponsored by Champaign Rotary

Johnston Park, Champaign

701 Goldenview Drive, Champaign
Sponsored by Keller Williams

 

Mahomet 

Bridle Leash Park

902 W Dianne Ln, Mahomet, IL 61853
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Mahomet and Mahomet Parks and Recreation

 

Rantoul

Wabash Park

520 E. Wabash Ave, Rantoul
Sponsored by Emerging Community Leaders

Chris Rudzinski Park  

401 W. Grove Ave, Rantoul
Sponsored by Emerging Community Leaders

 

St. Joseph

Kolb Park

205 W. Sherman, St. Joseph
Sponsored by Keller Williams

 

Savoy

*Dana Colbert Park

203 E. Church St, Savoy
Sponsored by Emerging Community Leaders and the Village of Savoy

 

Urbana

*Urbana Early Childhood School 

2202 E. Washington St., Urbana

Sponsored by Champaign County Association of Realtors

 

Sponsor a Trail

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volunteer painting a trail

Local companies, service clubs or groups are able to sponsor the installation of a new trail. Trail sponsorship is a commitment to the community.

Each Born Learning Trail is a partnership between United Way, local groups, and municipal Park Districts or Recreation departments. This ensures the Trail is kept in good shape at all times.

For more information, contact Anne Clark Skuse.