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| Environmental Learning for the Future (ELF) Exploring the Environment with Children
Volunteer educators gather monthly during the school day for a two-hour training workshop in which they learn activities that they later share with students. As part of each workshop, VINS helps volunteers develop teaching skills and adapt the lessons to various grade levels. Most workshops include an outdoor component that allows participants to experience the natural world first-hand and apply their learning. ELF explores nature in and around the school grounds, teaching children that science learning is not limited to textbooks and far-away field trips. Schools benefit when children explore and investigate the wealth of teaching resources nature provides. Written materials and teaching supplies, such as slideshows and skull sets, audio tapes and owl pellets, are provided by VINS. "This program is a great way to get parents involved in their child's education in a useful, yet fun way." Hands-On Nature, A Companion Teaching Guide Order Hands-On Nature online (coming soon) Information for Volunteers, including ELF units ELF Corner: Information and Activities for Kids Trainers' Pages An 8-minute video on ELF, "ELF Nationwide", is available. To borrow a copy, please contact the ELF Office elf@vinsweb.org. Three ways to learn more about ELF and Hands-On Nature: Call VINS, Betsy Shands, School Programs Manager
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© VINS, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, wholly supported by membership dues, admission and program fees, donations, and grants. | ||||||||||||||||
ELF is an award-winning environmental education program designed for elementary-aged children and taught by parents and other community volunteers. Children love ELF because the activities are playful and fun. Volunteers enjoy ELF because it gives them a meaningful role to play in their school while enriching their knowledge of the environment. Schools value ELF because students learn hands-on natural science in direct support of education standards, plus parents and community members get involved in the classroom.