This seems to be a strength of these materials which include a detailed training and recruitment piece for teens. Cross age teaching and the mentoring structure used in YES provide opportunities for youth and adults to plan, implement and learn together. Youth teachers develop skills in presentation, organization, community service and build self esteem. The YES curriculum is designed to be used for after-school or school age child care programs. It appears that the materials could also be easily used for K-3 club meetings and summer camp programs as times are given for each of the individual activities.
Materials provide tips for the youth teacher in how to prepare and present the lessons.
Each activity is clearly written and uses a format that is easy for the teacher to follow. Background information is provided on each of the science concepts to be covered. Educational experiences for youth ages 5-8 need to be varied and many to adapt to their attention span. YES provides for a variety of activities including - story telling, experiments, crafts, games, active movement, and writing of stories. Real world situations and issues are well covered as youth explore recycling, energy, worms and things in their own kitchen.