About the junior Naturalist program
What is a Junior Naturalist class?
Most Junior Naturalist classes are "open-house" style, which means that you can come & go anytime during the scheduled time. Usually the host naturalist will have a variety of self-guided activities about a certain topic set up for the Junior Naturalist and their adult to work through together.
Who can become a Junior Naturalist?
Students aged 5-12 accompanied by an adult. Junior Naturalist programs are not appropriate for organized groups. If you are an organized group—including Scout Troops-- please contact ERNC to arrange for a private program.
What does it mean? How long does it take?
Being an official Eagle River Nature Center Junior Naturalist means that you have attended 12 Junior Naturalist programs. A Junior Naturalist will (usually) be officially sworn in on the day of their 12th program. They will receive an official Junior Naturalist kit with various tools to help them explore the world along with an official certificate. Just because you’re a Junior Naturalist doesn’t mean you can’t come to programs any more—feel free to continue and even work toward another Junior Naturalist certification! There is no official time limit, however, punch cards may be discarded after several years of disuse.
When does it happen?
Junior Naturalist programs occur most Saturdays throughout the year. Additional programs are offered during the week during summer months. “All Ages” programs also count as Junior Naturalist programs. Crafting workshops programs do not count as Junior Naturalist programs. Junior Naturalist programs are free, but some may require pre-registration.
Can I do more by myself?
Absolutely! Download & print Junior Naturalist Challenges "To-Go" HERE. Check back regularly as the programs are being updated and revised. Some programs may make sense during some seasons but not others. After you've completed the form, email [email protected] to let us know that we need to punch your card! Feel free to include any pictures and if we're allowed to share the pictures on social media!
Most Junior Naturalist classes are "open-house" style, which means that you can come & go anytime during the scheduled time. Usually the host naturalist will have a variety of self-guided activities about a certain topic set up for the Junior Naturalist and their adult to work through together.
Who can become a Junior Naturalist?
Students aged 5-12 accompanied by an adult. Junior Naturalist programs are not appropriate for organized groups. If you are an organized group—including Scout Troops-- please contact ERNC to arrange for a private program.
What does it mean? How long does it take?
Being an official Eagle River Nature Center Junior Naturalist means that you have attended 12 Junior Naturalist programs. A Junior Naturalist will (usually) be officially sworn in on the day of their 12th program. They will receive an official Junior Naturalist kit with various tools to help them explore the world along with an official certificate. Just because you’re a Junior Naturalist doesn’t mean you can’t come to programs any more—feel free to continue and even work toward another Junior Naturalist certification! There is no official time limit, however, punch cards may be discarded after several years of disuse.
When does it happen?
Junior Naturalist programs occur most Saturdays throughout the year. Additional programs are offered during the week during summer months. “All Ages” programs also count as Junior Naturalist programs. Crafting workshops programs do not count as Junior Naturalist programs. Junior Naturalist programs are free, but some may require pre-registration.
Can I do more by myself?
Absolutely! Download & print Junior Naturalist Challenges "To-Go" HERE. Check back regularly as the programs are being updated and revised. Some programs may make sense during some seasons but not others. After you've completed the form, email [email protected] to let us know that we need to punch your card! Feel free to include any pictures and if we're allowed to share the pictures on social media!