Youth Discovery Project
Youth Discovery Project: Epic Nature-Based Workshop Series
Join us for an immersive, project-focused experience to design, build, craft, cultivate, laugh, lead, and learn through a wide variety of unique outdoor workshops. With two weekly class options, join us on Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. or Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Offered for teens ages 13–17*, Youth Discovery Project hones in on practical skills, sustainability, and teamwork, offering a meaningful opportunity to explore and create in the natural environment.
This seasonal series of inspiring activities is tailored to be a hands-on approach for participants to discover ancient techniques, effective solutions, and modern knowledge while developing skills in adaptability and resilience. Through interaction, collaboration, and design, our exciting curriculum seeds an awareness of important concepts (natural crafting, the soil food web, biodiverse ecosystems, organic agriculture, permaculture, resourcefulness, etc.) while instilling a lasting sense of awe and enjoyment for living systems. ~ 2025 Curriculum ~
We believe financial barriers shouldn’t prevent families and students from accessing our programs. We encourage you to apply for Seeds of Success before enrolling and will send you a discount code if you are eligible.
Please review PLG AGREEMENTS & POLICIES before enrolling.
Who can participate: Offered for ages 13-17.* Our students represent diverse communities with a wide range of learning styles, cultural backgrounds, abilities, and interests. We are committed to providing accommodations to ensure every student can succeed in their own way at our farm.
*We will work with families to determine the best class placement for 12-year-olds. Please email us at info@parkerlearninggardens.org for more information.
Class details: ~ 2025 Curriculum ~
Time: Thursdays 4 to 6 p.m. OR Saturdays 1 to 3 p.m. Students should enroll only for one class time and date. Drop-off is available within 15 minutes before the class start time for added convenience.
Seasonal Schedule 2025: Each season features fresh and exciting projects, ensuring no two seasons are the same!
Spring: March 4 – May 31 (13 weeks)
Two-week break - Volunteer opportunities may be available.
Summer: June 19 – August 30 (11 weeks)
Fall: September 4 – November 8 (10 weeks)
Fall/Winter Break - Ask us about volunteer opportunities!
Skills and topics covered: Natural Crafting, Soil Food Web and Biodiverse Ecosystems, Organic and Regenerative Agriculture, Permaculture Design, Sustainable Living Practices
Hands-On Projects: Participants will take on dynamic tasks that include constructing bamboo shelters, building earthen cob walls, and crafting primitive bows and arrows. They will create living willow structures, conduct farm animal intelligence experiments, and propagate mushroom logs. Other exciting projects include producing biochar, weaving garden structures, natural dying, and making artisan bowls and masks. These activities blend ancient techniques with modern sustainability knowledge, providing a well-rounded experience that helps develop cultural awareness, ecological stewardship, leadership, confidence, and self-reliance.
Youth leadership opportunities: Participants are offered, but not required, to explore leadership roles, guiding their group in a supportive, low-pressure environment. With mentorship from experienced instructors and volunteers, teens will build confidence and communication skills while fostering teamwork.
About our instructors: Our staff members are approved through the Oregon Department of Education Central Background Registry, trained in Adult and Pediatric First Aid, AED, and CPR, and receive ongoing training to meet the diverse needs of our students. In addition to their qualifications, they undergo continuous professional development to meet the unique needs of both individuals and groups.
Jenna (aka “Knotwood”) and Nate (aka“Usnea”), the Lead Instructors for the Youth Discovery Project, bring a wealth of experience to the program. 2025 marks their third year leading YDP, with expertise in wild crafting, outdoor education, living willow structure design, fine woodworking, fermentation science, organic farming, and youth mentorship. Their knowledge of ethnobotany, mycology, and fine arts adds depth to the curriculum, blending traditional ecological wisdom with creative expression. To ensure personalized attention, we maintain a 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio, with additional support from instructional volunteers and guest speakers.
Communication: Instructors will use the Remind app to provide real-time feedback and updates to parents and guardians. Families may also opt for text message updates, and other communication needs can be accommodated on a case-by-case basis.
