The Mancos Public Library's outdoor adventures program promotes experiential education through nature-based activities for children aged 9-12. It aims to foster meaningful connections with nature while addressing issues such as cultural responsiveness and community engagement. The program incorporates various design principles and activities, resulting in positive outcomes for participants, including improved well-being and stronger community bonds.

1. Outdoor Adventures @ the Mancos Public Library A “No Child Left Inside”, place-based, experiential education, after-school program

2. Mission Statement: To produce an educational experience which is both meaningful to the participants and provides them with a rich relationship with nature. The Mancos river valley will serve as a foundation for stewardship and civic engagement.

3. Background Program developed by a team of educators, biologists, artists, outdoor recreation specialist, and librarians. Kids need an opportunity to explore, build, hike, create and play in a youth centered community. .

4. The design principles used are based on David Sobel’s book Childhood and Nature. These design principles mirror the way children of all ages interact with nature, based on recurrent play themes from around the world.

5. Design Principles Adventure Fantasy & Imagination Animal allies Maps & Paths Special places Small worlds Hunting & Gathering

6. Fall Fort building.hiking.mapping.games

7. Earth Art

8. birdfeeders

9. Winter Tracks. games. crafting. survival. Earth art. snow ecology.

10. Sledding!!

11. Winter Wear and Shelter boots.hats.gloves.snowpants.warmcoat

12. Building a snow shelter

13. The Mushers

14. Mushing

15. Snowballs!

16. Snowshoeing

17. Winter water play

18. Spring hiking.forts.maping. fishnets. paper airplanes.contest.

19. Kites!

20. Small Worlds

21. Book suggestions for parent read aloud

23. O utcomes: 9-12 age kids ran to the library after school ! Connect positive feelings with the library. More relaxed, better sleep, able to concentrate on homework. Blending between groups of kids and new bonds formed. Address cultural responsiveness to bullying, racism.

24. Outcomes Continued Support healthy, clear and direct communication. Placed-based learning connects kids with local resources and strengthens feelings of stewardship/citzenship. Increase awareness of the environment and meaningful connections with the natural world using all the senses.

25. Helpful Hints: Do Evaluations Don’t be afraid! Location is important: The river ran through it season after season. Be flexible

26. Equipment First Aid Kit Healthy Snacks Cell phones/Camera Student Assistant Craft supplies