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Every Kid Can Be a Junior Naturalist

By Matt Morris,

Paula Champagne

At AMC, we believe everyone plays a part in our conservation work, including kids!  

AMC Junior Naturalists are curious children, ages five through twelve, who take a pledge to respect all living things, learn about the natural world, and work towards protecting our planet. Junior Naturalists Activity Booklets with games, science challenges, and fun facts are available at the following AMC locations: 

  • Medawisla Lodge 
  • Joe Dodge Lodge 
  • Highland Center 
  • AMC’s High Mountain Huts 
  • Cardigan Lodge 
  • Harriman Outdoor Center 
  • Reeves Meadow Visitor Center in Harriman State Park 
  • Mohican Outdoor Center 
  • Cold River Camp 
  • Three Mile Island 
  • Echo Lake 

All your child needs to do is:  

  • Pick up a free activity booklet from the front desk. Booklets are available for ages five to eight, and ages nine to twelve. A winter edition is also available. 
  • Complete at least eight activities. Kids can ask for help from AMC’s friendly staff—like hut croo, naturalists, and volunteer leaders. 
  • Bring the completed booklet to a staff member. They’ll make it official with a swearing-in ceremony, including an official patch!

Activity booklets aren’t the only way AMC gets families involved. AMC offers free, on-site naturalist presentations and family-friendly activities at many locations. And the fun doesn’t have to end when you return home. You and your child can continue the junior naturalist pledge by learning about the environment in your hometown. Look for animal species you don’t recognize. Play iNaturalist Bingo. Keep track of the weather.  

Check out some sample activities from the booklets below. Print them for your little one or take a look for yourself. You might learn something new, too! 

 All booklet activities by Nancy Ritger. AMC’s Junior Naturalist Program is made possible with support from L.L. Bean and WTM Foundation.

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The Appalachian Mountain Club is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 04-6001677) under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. AMC operates under several special permits and leases, including in the White Mountain National Forest, New York Palisades Interstate Park Commission, and New Hampshire State Parks.

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