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 17, 2024 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.

Wednesday, January 17 – Wildlife of Illinois

Location: Big Creek Park’s Baker Rec. Center

*dress in layers and be prepared to go outside.

Time: 3:30 - 5:30pm

Wednesday, February 21 – Fossils & Geology

Location: Donaldson Community Center, 205 S. Ave D

Time: 3:30-5:30pm

Wednesday, March 20 – Climate Change & Weather

Location: Donaldson Community Center, 205 S. Ave D

Time: 3:30-5:30pm

Wednesday, April 17 – Wildflowers & Trees

Location: Big Creek Park Bottom Area

Time: 3:30-5:30pm

Wednesday, May 15 - Pond Explorers, Aquatics & Insects

Location: Lakeland Park Pavilion

Time: 3:30-5:30pm

Wednesday, June 12 – Camping Adventures

Location: Big Creek Park Pavilion

Time: 1-3pm

Wednesday, July 17 - Pool Party & Plans for next year

Location: Big Creek Park Pool

Time: 1-3pm

Cost - $20 per child      ($5 discount if you register and pay by Nov. 30, 2023)

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.