Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a unique Hands-On Homeschool program that provides experiential learning opportunities for homeschoolers, ages seven through 17. This program focuses on science-centered themes and topics, with each three-hour session offering enriching experiences for students to investigate a specific theme or topic. Participants also get to meet an animal ambassador up-close and work with their peer groups to explore each study focus in-depth.
What is Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Homeschool?
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Hands-On Homeschool program is a supplemental learning opportunity for homeschoolers, with monthly programs focusing on Colorado Department of Education school science standards through inquiry-based, hands-on exploration and investigation of wild animals and wild places. The programs are designed to help students connect with animals, the Zoo, and each other.
Age Groups and Program Themes
The Hands-On Homeschool programs are divided into two different age groups:
- First through fifth graders
- Sixth through eighth graders
Each program includes Zoo admission for the student, engaging activities, and an up-close meet-and-greet with an animal ambassador. The themes for these programs vary, with the next theme for sixth- to eighth-grade students exploring the wonderful features of some of the Zoo’s oddest and most unique species.
Registration and Customization
Registration is required for all Hands-On Homeschool programs, and space is limited in these small-group programs. If you are interested in customizing your very own Hands-On Homeschool program, you can email [email protected].
Benefits of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Homeschool
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Homeschool program offers several benefits for homeschooling families:
- Hands-On Learning: The program provides engaging, hands-on learning experiences that allow students to explore science-centered themes and topics in a fun and interactive way.
- Animal Encounters: Participants get to meet an animal ambassador up-close, which can help foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
- Peer Interaction: Students work in small groups, providing opportunities for them to collaborate, communicate, and learn from their peers.
- Curriculum Alignment: The programs are designed to align with Colorado Department of Education school science standards, ensuring that the learning is relevant and meaningful.
- Community Building: The program has been growing since it started in 2020, with many returning students and families forming a sense of community.
Unique Features of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Homeschool
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Homeschool stands out from other homeschool programs in several ways:
- Focus on Science and Nature: The program’s curriculum is centered around science-based themes and topics, with a strong emphasis on exploring the natural world.
- Animal Ambassadors: The opportunity to meet and interact with animal ambassadors is a unique and engaging aspect of the program.
- Small Group Size: The programs are designed for small groups, allowing for more personalized attention and hands-on experiences.
- Customization: Families can work with the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo team to customize their own Hands-On Homeschool program, tailoring the experience to their specific needs and interests.
Conclusion
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Hands-On Homeschool program offers a unique and enriching learning experience for homeschoolers. With its focus on science, nature, and animal encounters, the program provides students with the opportunity to explore the world around them in a hands-on, engaging way. Whether you’re a returning family or new to the program, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Homeschool is sure to inspire and educate your curious learners.