Interpreters connect visitors to important natural, cultural, and historical resources at parks, nature centers, historical sites, aquariums, zoos, and anywhere that people come to learn about places. If you help visitors learn about a place that’s important to you, you’re an interpreter! Creating meaningful programs that leave a lasting impact on participants and help to connect them to the natural and historical world is quite a task. The National Association for Interpretation (NAI) offers the Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) Training to help break down the elements of meaningful presentations, provide tools to engage an audience in a meaningful experience, and foster techniques to connect visitors to place. 

The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, in partnership with the National Association for Interpretation (NAI), is offering a training course for individuals in the field of Interpretation. It is designed for individuals who deliver interpretive programs or have contact with the public at interpretive sites. 

The nationally recognized Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) program is designed for anyone in the interpretive field. Whether you’re a new hire, a professional looking to refresh your skills, or beginning a second career, this course will aid you in improving your presentation techniques. The course combines the theoretical foundations of the profession with practical strategies in delivering quality interpretive programming to visitors.

This 32-hour course includes:

• The history, definition, and principles of interpretation.
• Techniques on how to make your programs purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, organized, and thematic.
• How to use tangible objects to connect your audience to intangible ideas and universal concepts.
• The 3 certification requirements needed to obtain a CIG (open book CORE Literature Review exam, program outline, and 10 minute interpretive presentation).

This course will meet from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm daily. Morning snacks, coffee, and tea will be provided.  Please bring your lunch or money to purchase one nearby.  Dress comfortably for indoor and outdoor activities.  Lodging is available at Cottage Place on Squam Lake.