AmeriCorps Update & Education Winter 2024
There’s nothing more transformative than getting kids out of the classroom and into the natural world. Hands-on, in-the-field experiences allow them to connect with the environment in ways that lectures and textbooks can’t replicate. From flipping logs to reveal salamanders, to searching for bugs, snails, and small crustaceans in the stream bed, to discovering a mushroom tucked under the leaves, to tracking a slug as it slowly forages through the duff, these moments spark curiosity, foster respect, and build a lasting emotional connection to the Earth. Larger animals are found with luck – a herd of elk running by, an owl gliding soundlessly above, or a small black and white skunk waddling by with its fluffy tail held high like a banner of pride. By touching, seeing, and interacting with nature directly, children develop a sense of wonder and stewardship that inspires them to protect what they’ve come to love. It’s in these immersive experiences that the next generation of environmental advocates truly takes root.
We’ve had a remarkable autumn this year as we’ve had the privilege of taking so many kids and adults into the field to explore and connect with nature. We have led nature walks with several schools and organizations in recent months, thanks to our volunteers and naturalists who offered their expertise and knowledge to guide us safely into the field. We’ve explored the headwaters of Cow Creek, found secret meadows on the way to Twin Lakes, were blown away by the beauty and number of amphibians on the way to Wolf Creek Falls, and found over 20 species of mushrooms at Iverson State Park. I’m really appreciative of the volunteers who come forward to offer these incredible experiences.
However, not all schools and groups have the flexibility to get their community out into the field. I am so excited to have initiated programs this winter with the Douglas County Head Start classrooms, the Cow Creek Education Resource Center, and the Phoenix school. My areas of expertise are physics, chemistry, and bringing live animal ambassadors into the classroom to show how these subjects are used by animals on a daily basis to survive and thrive. I love being able to work with our very youngest students with Head Start, up to high school students with the other organizations. It doesn’t matter how old or young the student is, hands-on access to animals and science experiments is a win every day.
We are always looking for additional volunteers to guide our youth into the field! Being an expert is not necessary; we all learn from each other. Please reach out if you would like to join our efforts!
