An invitation to discuss how after-school programs and nature intersect.

Presented with the Illinois Afterschool Network and geared for Out of School Time youth-serving staff, managers, coordinators and anyone excited to understand how nature can lend itself to an outdoor out-of-school time fun and learning while being up and active with youth.

Nature is… a fun place to decompress and check in with your mental health while being a place to learn! Connecting with the outdoors can provide a unique way to meet out-of-school time program goals and objectives, including balancing mental and physical health. You are invited to learn about the almost 70,000-acre wild and wonderful natural resource that is the Forest Preserves of Cook County and how you can use this resource as part of your out-of-school activities. Join us for a light lunch, an outdoor activity and for discussion with and information from the Forest Preserves team and a partner about how you can put some nature into your program. Dress for the weather and be outside for part of the day. Wear comfortable, close-toed shoes for walking.