Youth Environmental Learning Series
Parents! Do you have a child who enjoys exploring the outdoors or is constantly asking
questions about nature? If so, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Bureau of State Parks has developed the Youth Environmental Learning Series to help these youngsters learn about their world. This series consists of four, fun and exciting programs that allow young people to explore their environment with others of the same age and abilities. Youth who progress from one program to the next will continually grow in their understanding of the environment and their role in it.
Touch and Grow
Ages 4-5
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Adopting a Tree, Amazing Animals and Weather Wonders are all programs children can experience during the first step in the Youth Environmental Learning Series. These Touch and Grow programs include hands-on, environmental explorations that excite and increase the environmental awareness of each participant. |
Environmental Discovery
Ages 6-8
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While participating in activities such as Spider Safaris or Wet and Wild Stream Searches, Environmental Discovery participants continue to increase their environmental awareness while building their knowledge of the natural world. As in Touch and Grow, all senses are used during hands-on, field learning activities. |
Junior Naturalist
Ages 9-13
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Junior Naturalist is a more directed and guided approach to environmental learning. Participants receive a Junior Naturalist membership card and work toward the completion of specific requirements developed for their age group and skill level. By participating in guided activities, Junior Naturalists continue to develop their environmental knowledge and complete requirements that lead to the presentation of the patch and certificate of the Junior Naturalist Award. Participants earn colored stripes for each year of participation. |
Conservation Leadership Program
Ages 14-17
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The Conservation Leadership Program is the final progression of the Youth Environmental Learning Series. Participants design and implement a conservation project as well as participate in an environmental learning activity. This action oriented program helps each individual develop problem-solving skills necessary in the stewardship of Pennsylvania's natural resources. The Conservation Leadership certificate and patch are presented to participants who complete the requirements of this program. |
How Do I Become Involved?
The Youth Environmental Learning Series is offered at all state-operated environmental education centers and at select state parks. To determine program times, dates and locations, visit the Calendar of Events or contact the state park or environmental education center of your choice.
Back to Environmental Education and Interpretation
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