Growing Up WILD!

Growing Up Wild

Join us for a walk and a ramble through the pre-K world of Growing Up Wild. 

Growing Up Wild (GUW) is an activity based, experiential learning curriculum guide. Designed for exploring nature with young children, GUW is an early childhood education program that builds on a child’s sense of wonder about nature and invites them to explore wildlife and the world around them. There are over 20 activities that are specifically designed for children ages 3-7. These lessons can be used in pre-schools, child development centers, and kindergarten classrooms. 

• Is written especially for early childhood educators of children ages 3-7.

• Features 27 field-tested, hands-on, nature-based, ready-made thematic units and over 400 experiences in a full-color activity guide.

• Includes outdoor explorations, scientific inquiry, art projects, music and movement, conservation activities, reading and math connections and "Healthy Me" extensions.

• Involves social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive domains to help foster learning and development in all areas.

• Supports developmentally appropriate practice allowing children to learn at levels that are individually, socially, and culturally appropriate.

• Is correlated to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Standards and the Head Start Domains

This workshop is specifically designed for homeschool teachers , scout leaders, community program educators, daycare teachers, and parents.

Workshop participants will...

• Be introduced to activities that focus on Maine-specific wildlife and habitats

• Try example activities from the Growing Up Wild

• Receive a copy of the Growing Up Wild book

• Receive teacher professional development credit hours

This event will be held both inside and outside so dress for the weather.

Learn more on the Maine Project Wild website or the national website at www.projectwild.org

This training program is a partnership between the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and Viles Arboretum. Registration for the class is $50 and includes a curriculum and activity guide, drinks, snacks and treats, and a certificate of contact hours for recertification.

The class will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., including a break for lunch. Bring your own sandwich/salad, we’ll provide coffee/tea, drinks, energy bars, fruit, chips, snacks and cookies. (A microwave is available.)

The Maine Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, religion, ancestry, or national origin.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and our partners are fully committed to providing an engaging event for all. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact Laura Craver-Rogers at laura.craver-rogers@maine.gov or 207-592-0750 at least 7 days prior to the event. If you have any other questions or concerns please, reach out! We are here to help and look forward to talking with you.