Do you know a young person who is interested in working with kids in the outdoors? Teens aged 14 to 17 can get an online introduction to Leading Youth in Nature experiences this January!
The LYNX program from the Humber Arboretum offers participants the tools and skills to help them create exceptional nature experiences for children. Whether teens are already volunteering with kids in their community, are hoping to get their first job at a summer camp, or are planning a career in education, the LYNX series from the Humber Arboretum is here to help participants become the best nature mentor they can be.
LYNX Level One, Virtual
This stand-alone program combines virtual group sessions with self-directed activities for a four day introduction to leading youth in nature. Participants who successfully complete LYNX Level One, Virtual (which includes full attendance, engaging in discussions, and completing all self-directed activities) will be issued a certificate from the Humber Arboretum recognizing their accomplishment.Only youth who have completed Level One are eligible to register in the in-person LYNX Level Two program and placement.
Who
LYNX Teen Leaders is open to participants aged 14 to 17.
No prior experience is required for LYNX Level One; this session is both an excellent introduction for those who are hoping to work with children in the future, and an in-depth look at designing and facilitating nature experiences for teens who are already working in leadership positions with kids.
Because it is entirely virtual, participants are welcome from anywhere in the world. Some specific examples and activities will focus on the ecosystems of Ontario, however the skills and concepts will be useful anywhere.
What
Under the guidance of the Humber Arboretum’s experienced Nature Interpretation team, LYNX participants will learn about topics such as:
- An introduction to the two-eyed seeing approach to nature connection
- Designing activities that help develop "ecosystems thinking"
- The importance of activity sequencing, and why and how to debrief after an activity
- The difference between “busy” and “engaged”
- Hazards vs Healthy Risk
- How to be a nature mentor
- Asking and encouraging great questions
- Adaptability, problem-solving, and self-care in the outdoors
- Communication skills: Explaining activities, communicating across cultures, and talking to parents
- Citizen science and ecological stewardship
- and more!
When
Winter Break 2023
- Tuesday, January 3 to Friday, January 6, 2023
- 9:30 am to 11:30 am: Morning session
- 11:30 to 1 p.m.: Lunch break/self-directed activities (offline)
- 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.: Afternoon session
Where
LYNX Level One is entirely virtual and will be held via Zoom. Participants may join from anywhere with an internet connection (times are eastern standard time - Toronto).
How
The virtual LYNX Level One program costs $250 plus HST per family device ($282.50) for all four days (Tuesday to Friday). Siblings within the age group are welcome to share a screen under one registration. Families with three or more siblings participating may use up to two devices under one registration.
For more information on the entire LYNX program and to register online for Level One, visit the LYNX Teen Leader Training page on the Arboretum website.
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