Interpreter Training Class - Kidsfirst
Beginning March 17
9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Would you like to teach young minds about our community’s pioneer history? The Center for History is accepting applications for those who wish to serve in a volunteer capacity as interpreters in its Kidsfirst Children’s Museum. Interpreters will facilitate educational programs for children, families, and school groups by leading interactive presentations and role-playing activities. Classes will take place weekly from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. beginning Wednesday, March 17, and last for three weeks. Currently undergoing renovation, Kidsfirst will be reopening to the public on May 1. The course for Kidsfirst interpreters covers specific people and places of the St. Joseph River Valley region from the prehistoric era through the end of the nineteenth century, with a heavy concentration on the pioneer era (circa 1820-1850). Information about the overall functions, capabilities, and resources of Kidsfirst is provided. In addition, instruction is given on how to engage children in the learning experience. Part of the Center for History, Kidsfirst Children’s Museum provides fun ways for young ones to discover history. The family-based environment is dedicated to the education and development of young children through hands-on, creative, interactive play. Kids can pretend to be part of an 1830s pioneer family in a log cabin that is complete with a child-sized furniture. Climbing aboard a Conestoga wagon, they can make-believe they're journeying cross-country to their new homestead. Children can use their imaginations as they pretend to buy and sell merchandise at the hands-on general store. At the newly constructed livery stable, they can "shoe" a horse and practice mounting a pony. Renovation projects at Kidsfirst include providing wheelchair accessibility to the pioneer cabin, the one-room school house, and Lathrop Taylor's Trading Post; design and construction of Peter Coleman's livery stable and farrier shop; and reconstruction of Chief Leopold Pokagon's wigwam. In addition to the training course, Center for History volunteers receive complimentary continuing education, invitations to visit historic sites in the community, and opportunities to meet new friends who share common interests in local history. Some help on a regular basis, while others prefer to be called "as-needed." Tremendous work is accomplished by volunteers at the Center for History, and an added benefit is the friendships formed with staff and other volunteers. Those with a background in early childhood education are strongly encouraged to apply. For information, call Stephanie McCune-Bell, Director of Public Programs, at (574) 235-9664, ext. 241.