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 16, 2023 and will meet at Big Creek Park’s Baker Recreation Center in Canton. The club will meet once a month with a wide range of nature related topics and activities planned.
Monday, January 16 – Wildlife of Illinois (No School Day)
Location: Big Creek Park’s Baker Rec. Center *dress in layers and be prepared to go outside.
Time 1-3pm.
Thursday, February 23 – Fossils/Geology
Location: Big Creek Park’s Baker Rec. Center
Time 3:30-5:30pm
Saturday, March 18 – Climate Change & Weather
Location: Big Creek Park’s Baker Rec. Center
Time 1-3pm
Wednesday, April 19 – Insects/Wildflowers/Trees
Location: Big Creek Park Bottom Area
Time 3:30-5:30pm
Wednesday, May 24 Pond Explorers/Aquatics
Location: Lakeland Park Pavilion
Time 1-3pm
Wednesday, June 14 – Camping Adventures
Location: Big Creek Park Pavilion
Time 1-3pm
Thursday, July 20 - Pool Party & Plans for next year
Location: Big Creek Park Pool
Time 1-3pm
Cost - $20 per child
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 at 4h.extension.illinois.edu/participate/zsuite-enrollment-info or by calling University of Illinois Extension at 309-547-3711.
For more information about club plans contact Amanda Atchley at 309-647-7665.