Early childhood online outdoor education training scheduled for this spring

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach are launching an online training for the national award-winning Growing Up WILD activity guide.

This online training provides exciting hands-on activities and resources to help lead children (ages three to seven) out the door to explore nature. Activities use age-appropriate practices and concepts to build and nurture a child’s sense of wonder about nature, wildlife and the great outdoors. Early learning activities focus on: math, science, language, literacy, health living, play and creativity.

Participants are required to complete online pre-workshop activities and attend the online training May 19, from 6-9 pm. Cost includes the Growing Up WILD activity guide. Participants receive four (clock) hours credit for childcare license renewal approved by Iowa Department of Human Services.

Registration is required to attend the online training. Register and submit payment by May 5 on the Iowa Child Care Provider Training Registry at https://ccmis.dhs.state.ia.us/trainingregistry/TrainingRegistry/Public/ (search for Reconnecting Children with Nature).