Kids curious about critters have a new club to join in Whistler.
The Whistler Naturalists are partnering with NatureKids BC to start a club for families with children aged five to 12. Each month, families can take part in Explorer Days where they head out into nature and learn about local ecosystems and connect with likeminded families.
According to a press release, “NatureKids BC is a nature discovery and environmental action organization that helps children form meaningful and enduring connections with nature alongside their families.”
Membership is free for families and includes a welcome package, a magazine subscription and more.
“While NatureKids BC takes the lead on providing resources and administration help, the local Whistler Club will run monthly Explorer Days,” said local coordinator Kristina Swerhun. “I’ve volunteered with the Whistler Naturalists for many years and have been thinking about starting a Whistler NatureKids Club for a while. I’ve had more parents ask about programming for families lately, so this seemed a good time to start.”
Ideas for Explorer Day events are as diverse as the local ecosystem, with potential outings including pond dipping for aquatic insects, plant identification in forests or citizen science and stewardship activities.
The first outing will focus on animal tracks on the last weekend in March, and kids will learn how to identify wildlife that call Whistler home.
“We also understand that some kids are worried about the environment, and they can feel scared, overwhelmed and even hopeless. We’re hopeful this new club can help turn eco-anxiety into eco-action," Swerhun said. "When we validate our kids’ concerns and demonstrate how our actions—even the small ones—make a difference, we can transform feelings of anxiety into feelings of empowerment."
Families are encouraged to sign up regardless of knowing their schedule in advance.
“Getting the NatureWILD magazine alone is a great reason to join. It’s B.C.’s only homegrown nature magazine for kids and includes great articles and features stories of children and youth taking action for the environment, activities, games and contests,” said Swerhun. “And then in the future, who knows, maybe the timing of an Explorer Day will work for you.”
Parents can sign up at NatureKids BC’s website, and they will receive an email from the Whistler chapter requesting which days and times work best for Explorer Days.
The Whistler Public Library has stepped up to provide space during inclement weather and provide resources for the club, and the Association of Whistler Residents for the Environment will also lend a hand. Other organizations or volunteers looking to get involved with the club are asked to contact Swerhun at [email protected].
