Support Young Nature Explorers at Kingery Nature Center in Littleton 1 morning/week

Volunteer Opportunity: Nature Detectives for Tots & Caregivers with Denver Audubon | Kingery Nature Center (Littleton, CO)

Wednesdays, April 15 – May 13, 2026 (No program March 25)

8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Are you someone who loves being outdoors, notices the small details of the seasons, and enjoys spending time with young children?

Join us as a volunteer for Nature Detectives for Tots & Caregivers, a joyful, all-outdoor program designed for children ages 1–4 and their favorite adult.

This is not a teaching role. It’s a presence role.

We’re looking for someone who enjoys:

• Slowing down and observing nature
• Wondering out loud with young children
• Noticing birds, buds, mud, tracks, and tiny discoveries
• Supporting families as they explore together
• Being part of a warm, welcoming outdoor community

🌿 About the Program

Nature Detectives invites little ones and their caregivers to explore the forests, gardens, and gentle trails of the Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center. Together we sing songs, share stories, play simple games, and follow children’s curiosity outdoors.

The pace is slow. The discoveries are small and magical. The seasons are always changing.

🕰 Volunteer Commitment

• Arrive by 8:30 a.m. to help set up materials and welcome families
• Assist during the 9:00–10:15 a.m. program
• Help with light clean-up afterward
• Finish around 10:30 a.m.

Consistency is especially helpful, as young children thrive on familiar faces.

🌲 What You’ll Be Doing

• Helping set out simple materials (story props, exploration tools)
• Walking slowly with the group along dirt paths with slight elevation changes
• Engaging gently with children and caregivers
• Supporting songs, movement activities, and nature exploration
• Modeling curiosity, patience, and joy outdoors

There is no pressure to teach or lead lessons. Your role is to connect, observe, and support.

🥾 What to Expect

• This program is 100% outdoors, in all typical Colorado spring weather
• Trails include dirt paths with minor elevation gain/loss
• You’ll be on your feet and moving at a child’s pace
• Dress in layers and sturdy shoes
• Comfort being outside for two hours in changing conditions is essential

🌼 Who This Is Perfect For

• Nature lovers who enjoy young children
• Aspiring early childhood educators
• Retirees or adults seeking meaningful, low-pressure community involvement
• College students studying education, environmental science, or child development
• Anyone who believes childhood belongs outdoors

If you find joy in crouching down to examine a pinecone, listening for bird calls, or watching a toddler discover a puddle for the first time — you’ll fit right in.

About Denver Audubon

Denver Audubon connects people of all ages to birds, wildlife, and nature through education, conservation, and community programs. Our Kingery Nature Center provides a welcoming outdoor classroom for learners across generations.

If this sounds like a meaningful way to spend your Wednesday mornings, we would love to hear from you.

For questions, contact:

Caroline Pettit, Environmental Education Coordinator

📧 caroline@denveraudubon.org

📞 720-928-0690