Summer Positions Now Open!

Make a difference in the lives of kids by helping them connect with the natural world
Learn to be a Nature Connection Mentor, capable of igniting kid’s passion for learning
Join our team of skilled and experienced nature mentors
Have a lot of fun!

Our Teaching Philosophy

Nature Connection Mentoring utilizes a number of teaching styles that mimic how children naturally learn. The end result is something of an “invisible school” where kids experience having fun and playing games without even realizing how much they’re learning. We value child-led, creative, immersive play and exploration and hold a safe space for the kids to come into their own and form deep and lasting connections with the natural world and each other.

Nature Connection

Children’s lives are becoming more and more screen-based and lived indoors. Wild spaces are shrinking and our impact on the planet is reaching a breaking point. It is more urgent than ever for people of all ages and backgrounds, especially children to experience and fall in love with the natural world.

Become a Nature Instructor

In the quickly growing industry of Forest Kindergartens and nature-based education, there is an increasing need for skilled, diverse, and experienced instructors. As one of the only nature school’s in Michigan, with 10 years of experience and part of the world wide nature connection network, we find ourselves at the cutting edge and leaders within our bioregion.
We strive to have a diverse population of staff that represents the students we work with because we recognize the importance of representation in creating a safer space for all children to come outside.

Qualifications and Expectations

Creativity and passion for mentoring youth in a natural flow learning environment with an open and flexible structure
Care about equity and diversity as well as creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all
Current Wilderness First Aid and CPR certifications (or able to acquire before working)
Able to supervise up to 10 kids at a time with minimal support or supervision
Empathy, compassion, and an open mind
Dependable, able to show up on time and ready to go each day.
Able to pass a background check
Must demonstrate good judgment and risk assessment
Strong ability to work as a contributing member of a team, able to bring your unique voice, gifts, and contributions to a relational work setting
Willing to participate in a healthy feedback culture
Be a professional adult: operate with responsibility and integrity
Uphold Human Nature Schools mission and policies

Preference will be given to applicants who have

Experience as a naturalist instructor working with youth ages 4-15 in the outdoors
Experience with the Coyote Mentoring method
Knowledge of Great Lakes Bioregion hazards, mammals, tracking, edible/medicinal plants, navigation without map/compass, field ecology, trees, survival techniques, birds/birdsong, and history of local Indigenous Nations and right relations.
A diverse background
Knowledge and/or training in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work

Location

Work Hours

Compensation/Benefits

How to Apply

Applying is a 3 step process:

Complete the general application form below
Email your Resume and Cover Letter to info@humannatureschool.org
All applicants will receive a follow-up email within 2 weeks with the next steps.

MISSION