The Wee Nats program, implemented by Kelly Lafferty, University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development educator, offers an engaging and enriching introduction to nature and environmental stewardship for young children. The program, which caters to kids ages 4 to 7, has received recognition for its impactful approach to youth development. Lafferty was recently awarded the "Excellence in Natural Resources/Environmental Education" award from the Illinois Extension Professionals for Youth Education (IEPYE) for her work with Wee Nats.

“I am so proud of Kelly Lafferty for going above and beyond with this program. Offering programs like this within our local communities enriches the lives of so many youth,” responds Margaret Larson, University of Illinois Extension county director for Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties.

The goal of Wee Nats is to help children connect with nature, fostering an understanding of their role as environmental stewards. This is accomplished through a combination of storytelling, crafts, hands-on activities, and outdoor hikes. Each month features a new theme—ranging from owls to trees to bees—and begins with a children’s book related to that theme. After reading, the children participate in a STEM-related craft or activity before heading outside to explore the natural world in a way that ties back to the day’s lesson.

Since its launch in 2022 in Freeport, the program has expanded to multiple locations, including Pecatonica and East Dubuque in 2024. Through Wee Nats, Lafferty aims to foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment and provide children with the tools to become thoughtful, caring stewards of their natural surroundings.

“There’s something special about introducing children to nature and the outdoor environment,” remarks Lafferty, recognizing the profound impact early nature experiences have on a child’s development. Engaging with nature fosters curiosity, builds confidence, and instills a lifelong appreciation for the environment, shaping future environmental stewards.

To find a Wee Nats program near you, visit the website, go.illinois.edu/jsw or call (815) 235-4125.

Lafferty serves as the Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties 4-H Youth Development Educator for the University of Illinois Extension. Kelly provides leadership to the 4-H Youth Development programs and youth initiatives. Kelly holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Outdoor Teacher Education as well as in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Administration, specializing in Therapeutic Recreation. For more information about the programs Lafferty and the 4-H Youth Development team provide, visit go.illinois.edu/jsw.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. 4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools, and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.