Does your child enjoy the outdoors, playing, and learning more about the natural world? Then the Junior Master Naturalist program is the perfect way for your 9 – 12-year-old to explore and discover nature.
University of Illinois Extension Junior Master Naturalist program provides science-based educational opportunities that connect kids with nature and helps them become engaged environmental stewards. This is a new program that connects the 4-H and Extension Master Naturalists programs. This special interest 4-H club will inspire members to gain a sense of belonging with hands-on exploration through nature.
Former science teacher and Extension Master Naturalist Jenny Beal and Canton Park District Superintendent of Recreation Amanda Atchley are leaders of the new Jr. Master Naturalist 4-H Club. It is set to start January 15, 2025 and will meet at Donaldson Community Center in Canton. The club will meet once a month with a wide range of nature related topics and activities planned.
Wednesday, January 15 – Birds & Migration
Location: Donaldson Community Center
Time: 3:30-5:30 pm
Wednesday, February 19– Reptiles/Amphibians
Location: Donaldson Community Center
Time: 3:30-5:30 pm
Wednesday, March 19 – Pollinators/Prairies
Location: Donaldson Community Center
Time: 3:30-5:30 pm
Wednesday, April 16 – Oak Savannah Tree Project
Location: Wallace Park
Time: 3:30-5:30 pm
Wednesday, May 21 – Lake Study
Location: Lakeland Park Pavilion
Time: 3:30-5:30 pm
Wednesday, June 18 – Camping Adventures/Plan a Campout
Location: Lakeland Park – Nagel Pavilion
Time: 3:30-5:30 pm
Wednesday, July 16 - Pool Party & Plans for next year
Location: Big Creek Park Pool
Time: 1:00-3:00 pm
Cost - $20 per child (4-H membership)
Max Participation – 20 Members
To register, families can set up an account with the Illinois 4-H enrollment system, 4h.zsuite.org/, and select the 4-H club named Junior Master Naturalist. If you have questions about the registration process more details are available on the Illinois 4-H website or by calling University of Illinois Extension at 309-547-3711.
For more information about club plans contact Amanda Atchley at 309-647-7665.
If you would like to share this opportunity with others you may print this flyer to hand out.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact Krista Gray or Rachel Van Cleve, 309-547-3711.
