The Youth Naturalist Program is designed to provide a unique environmental education experience for children ages 8 to 12. It is held on Saturdays between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm (unless noted as an evening program).
Children are given the opportunity to learn about natural history, ecological concepts, and environmental concerns in a fun, hands-on environment. Most sessions include a hike, discovery lab or guest speaker and a related craft.
Activities are based in science, with an environmental focus, taught by professional instructors to provide a positive and enriching learning experience.
Programs include astronomy, mammals, insects and arthropods, outdoor survival, threatened and endangered species, geology, birds, paleontology, marine biology, reptiles and amphibians, Native American culture, animal tracking and more. There are also field trips. The cost is $20.00 per session. This program can be conducted on weekdays for private groups, birthday parties, scout groups and home-schooled children upon request. For private groups, the fee may change depending on the timeframe, number of participants, guest speakers and craft.
For questions about the Youth Naturalist Program click here FAQ.
Where: Headwaters Corner, Masson House, 23075 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302
Current Program Schedule for Fall:
Native American Culture
April 13, 2013
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
We will discover how the Native Americans lived comfortably with only the earth`s resources. There will be artifacts to discover, we will paint with rocks found on our hike and make a Native American craft.
Nighttime in Nature
May 11, 2013
6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Discover the nightlife in the mountains. Learn about animals and plants that are up all night. This program includes a hike, craft and a pizza dinner.
Outdoor Survival
June 8, 2013
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
This program offers plenty of tips on how to stay safe and comfortable if you get lost. We will hike and learn to read the landscape, conduct a compass scavenger hunt and build a lean to shelter out of branches and leaves.
Reptiles and Amphibians
July 13, 2013
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Find out what makes a reptile different than an amphibian. A guest speaker will bring in lots of species and you may want to bring your own too. This program provides a hike and related craft.
Insects and Arthropods
August 17, 2013
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Join us on our hunt for insects and arthropods. We will find their hiding places and special skills for survival. We will have a guest speaker that will bring a variety of species. A craft and hike are included.
+ Online Registration for Youth Naturalist Programs
+ Download Registration Form and Details
+ Download Headwaters Corner Map & Directions
Space is limited and reservations are required. Contact Susan Haugland at 818-591-1701 ext. 212 or email shaugland@mountainstrust.org with questions.