Author：Cui Yuxiang
On the morning of 25 October 2025, a lightdrizzle fell over Chang'an Park in Xi'an, Shaanxi. The vegetation glistened freshly washed, the air brimming with crisp, dampvitality. We arrived punctually for the YES Mentor Orientation organized by Shanghai Roots & Shoots YES Program. The drizzle did little to dampen our enthusiasm; if anything, it lent a special quality to this nature-focused event.
The opening icebreaker game, ‘Signature Moves’,swiftly dispelled any sense of unfamiliarity. Participants took turns introducing themselves with a unique gesture, then repeated the preceding person's details and action in a ‘snowballing’ fashion. As increasingly whimsical movements emerged, everyone quickly bondedthrough interaction, instantly warming the team atmosphere.
The subsequent ‘flowlearning’ exercise immersed us in nature. Closing our eyes, the rustling of raindrops on leaves, the faint ripples on the lake surface, and the occasional distant bird song became a ‘natural melody’ in our ears. We picked up our pens and sketched these intangible sounds into ‘sound maps,’ capturing our connection with nature in that moment.
In the afternoon, wemoved indoors for training. The instructor recounted Roots & Shoots' development and impacts through case studies, from school science outreach to species conservation, deepening our understanding of the mission. During the teaching techniques session, the trainer offered practical advice tailored to participatory environmental education; the ‘water cycle’ sample class reinforced our learning, with everyone listening attentively and taking notes, leaving us thoroughly enriched.
This day, amidst therain and sunshine of Chang'an Park, we not only forged bonds with fellows but also, through practice and learning, came to understand the true meaning of environmental education.
Special thanks：Applied Materials China