For Youth & Families
Part of our mission is to connect families with the natural world through inclusive education and recreation programs because we believe that when a community is deeply connected to its land, it will prosper. We do this through a variety of programs and offerings to help get more families and kids outside. Explore below to learn more!
CREA Camp
Each summer we offer nature-filled summer camp programs for youth entering grades 1-8 at our Cathance River Nature Preserve.
Programs for Teens
Counselor-in-Training Program
As part of our CREA Camp, our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program provides opportunities for youth ages 13 to 17 to develop and practice leadership skills while embedded in our camp program.
Environmental Youth Leadership Program
This new program, launched in 2026, supports local teens who are looking to more actively engage with environmental issues in their own community.
Currently offered in collaboration with Brunswick High School, participants attend twice-monthly sessions to meet with local farmers, scientists, business owners, and municipal officials to see how local environmental issues are being addressed and how students can get involved. The program concludes with student-led capstone projects implemented in the community during the spring semester.
For teens looking for ways to apply their interest in environmental issues in a tangible way, and meet local leaders in the field, this internship style program provides a terrific starting point.
Interested in participating or starting a chapter at your school? Email Sarah here.
Self-guided Activities
StoryWalk®
Head to the Cathance River Nature Preserve or Crystal Spring Farm (North) to enjoy one of our two StoryWalks®. These books are changed seasonally, allowing families to spend time in nature on a self-guided walk.
CREA Nature Investigators Videos
Want inspiration on ways to engage your children outdoors? Former CREA (Cathance River Education Alliance) interns Alex and Lily created videos detailing different ways to play and explore outside. From tracking weather to learning about trees, there’s something for everyone!
Watch their instructional videos here.
Wild Wonders Activity Guides
Looking for activities and experiments you can conduct at home? Each Wild Wonders activity guide provides a materials list and detailed instructions on how to investigate various nature topics from your home using only a few simple items.
Peruse the list and choose your next Wild Wonder adventure!
Want to connect with our community in other ways?
Head to our Farmers Market to join the POP Club, apply for a garden plot, take a walk on our trails, or head to our events calendar!