If we want our children to move mountains, we first have to let them get out of their chairs.
-Nicolette Sowder
At Kaniksu Land Trust, we are dedicated to empowering the next generation through innovative education initiatives. Our comprehensive programs span from early childhood to college, offering unique and immersive learning experiences that connect people with the natural world. Through StoryWalks, Trails & Tales, in-school outreach, Wildcrafting after-school programs, Camp Kaniksu for children and teens, and our Summer Conservation & Education Intern program, we inspire a deep appreciation for Idaho's unique natural assets. By harnessing the power of our incredible land and water resources, we create pathways for hands-on exploration, academic enrichment, and a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.
In Partnership with local schools
Imagine the not-too-distant past. Children attended rural schools, observing and discovering their surroundings as they walked to and from school each day with siblings and school mates. Recess was outside with nothing more than free play and the natural landscape to physically challenge and refresh young learners.
Today’s students have access to an abundance of technology. As “digital natives,” kids learn from a young age how to navigate the virtual world. Yet, all of the technological resources they have can not rival the astounding educational assets that can be found outdoors.
We have something special here that no one else on earth has. We have Idaho.
Home to some of the most spectacular lands and waters in the country, these natural treasures provide unique and invaluable learning opportunities. KLT's education program harnesses these strengths to elevate education in a way only Idaho can. These experiences have been shown to increase academic success as well as inspire a lifelong love of nature and stewardship.*
More than simply taking classroom lessons outside, KLT’s education outreach encourages students to discover and interpret their observations in nature.
*See the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point Outdoor Education Research for School Grounds summary for results from studies conducted relating school performance, health, child development, enrichment, and community/civic involvement success with outdoor education.
Our Education Programs
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In School Education
Our in-school education programs bring the wonders of nature directly into the classroom, offering students hands-on STEM experiences that connect their studies with the environment. By fostering a deep appreciation for local ecosystems and the sciences, we inspire young minds to become future leaders.
This program serves all the Elementary Schools in Lake Pend Oreille School District as well as elementary and secondary schools in western Sanders County.
If you are a teacher and you would like to know more please send an email to the link below.
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Wildcrafting
When kids learn traditional skills, they learn self-sufficiency. WildCrafting classes are seasonal after school sessions that teach kids to work with their hands on a variety of diverse traditional crafts. Each session features a different project, from bow-drill fire making and coal burned bowls to salmon skin tanning and timberframe building.
WildCrafting is grounded in the principle that working with our hands is a valuable skill that many have forgotten. The program seeks to provide students with a safe place to explore their creativity and reap the many benefits of handwork and the satisfaction of a project done well.
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Camp Kaniksu
Camp Kaniksu is our flagship summer program designed to immerse elementary and teen campers in the natural beauty of our region. For elementary-aged children, it's a fun-filled adventure where they engage in outdoor activities, hands-on learning, and environmental exploration, creating lasting memories and a lifelong love for nature. The highlight for teens is the thrilling Teen Expedition, a 5-day adventure that takes them on an exploration of our pristine lakes, promoting teamwork, leadership, and ecological understanding. Our camp programs inspire the next generation of environmental stewards while fostering a deep connection to the stunning landscapes of the Kaniksu region.
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ReWilding the Play Yard
Our Rewilding the Play Yard initiative is a transformative endeavor aimed at turning traditional school playgrounds into vibrant, nature-rich spaces for children to learn, explore, and thrive. By integrating native plants, natural play features, and wildlife habitats, we create dynamic learning environments right outside the classroom door. This initiative not only enhances academic engagement but also fosters physical activity, imaginative play, and environmental education, promoting well-being and inclusivity for all students. Through this community-driven effort, we bridge socioeconomic disparities, providing equal opportunities for children to connect with nature and each other.
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StoryWalk
Our StoryWalk program offers a unique way for families and children to connect with both literature and the outdoors. Pages from a children's book are placed along a scenic trail, inviting participants to follow the story while enjoying the natural beauty of our surroundings. This innovative blend of literacy and outdoor exploration fosters a love for reading and an appreciation for the environment, making learning an enjoyable adventure for all ages.
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Trails & Tales
Our Trails & Tales program is a captivating summer outdoor experience tailored for preschool-aged children and their families. As families explore scenic trails, they encounter pages from a beloved children's story, making storytelling come alive amid the beauty of nature. This interactive adventure fosters a love for reading and an early connection to the natural world, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for both literature and the great outdoors. It's an enchanting way for young minds to embark on literary and ecological journeys together.
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Conservation Intern Program
Our Conservation Intern Program is a dynamic opportunity for local college students studying conservation-related fields. This immersive summer internship provides hands-on experience in land conservation, ecological research, and environmental education. Interns work alongside our dedicated team to protect and preserve our natural landscapes while gaining valuable skills and insights for their future careers. Through this program, we empower the next generation of environmental leaders, fostering a deep commitment to conservation and a stronger, more sustainable future for our community. If you are interested please send a message to us at the link below.
Not all children come to school adequately nourished or properly equipped for spending time outdoors. Through the generous support of our community, KLT includes nutritious snacks in all education programs and makes every effort to equip students with proper outdoor weather gear so that all kids are ready to learn.
Idaho's spectacular natural assets have an unparalleled power to teach, inspire, and transform the education experience. By investing in education that connects people with Idaho's unique natural assets, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for all of us.