Growing Up Wild Workshop
Annett Nature Center and Park, Warren County
Saturday, March 7, 2015
Training
for child care providers and teachers for the award-winning national program
Growing Up WILD is being held March 7th. This training is for early childhood
professionals and teachers working with children ages three to seven.
Professional providers receive four hours toward their DHS training
requirements in the area of advancing children's physical and intellectual
development. This four-hour training opportunity emphasizes nature's benefits.
“Research tells us being active in nature makes kids healthier. It also reduces
stress, helps children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),
and may reduce obesity,” says Kim Brantner, Iowa State University Extension
& Outreach family finance program specialist. “We also know that getting
children outside leads to higher levels of physical activity,” Brantner adds.
“The program builds on children's sense of wonder about nature. It invites them
to explore wildlife and the world just outside their door.” Participants
receive the 128-page Growing Up WILD: Exploring Nature with Young Children
Activity Guide. The Guide features 27 nature-based themes, crafts, art, music,
movement, math, reading activities, and “take me outside” events. It also
includes snack ideas, take-home family activities, early learning standards,
Head Start domains, and suggested resources. Those attending also get to
connect with Annett Nature Center's naturalist, Karen Johlas-Szalkowski.
Workshop cost of $40 covers the Growing Up WILD: Exploring Nature with Young
Children Activity Guide. Professional Providers register by going to the Iowa
Child Care Providers Training Registry at http:\/\/ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us\/trainingregistry.
Click on Search Trainings, then search Reconnecting in the Title. All others
may register by calling Kathryn Pierson at Warren County Extension
