Brookfield Zoo, a renowned institution located in the heart of Illinois, offers a diverse range of classes and programs catering to individuals of all ages and interests. From family-friendly explorations to professional development opportunities for educators, Brookfield Zoo’s educational offerings provide a unique and engaging way to connect with the natural world.

Family Play Classes: Bonding with Nature

Designed for parents and young explorers, Brookfield Zoo’s Family Play Classes offer a fun and educational experience for families. These interactive sessions allow children and their caregivers to explore the zoo’s exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the fascinating world of wildlife.

Teacher Classes: Empowering Educators

Brookfield Zoo recognizes the crucial role of educators in shaping the next generation of environmental stewards. The zoo’s Teacher Classes provide professional development opportunities for K-12 teachers, offering evidence-based strategies and resources to engage students, increase conservation awareness, and bring learning to life in the classroom. These classes, which may be free or have a fee, can also offer professional development hours.

Zoo Camp: Immersive Summer Adventures

Brookfield Zoo’s Zoo Camp program is an inclusive camp experience for children ages 4-14. Campers have the opportunity to learn, play, and explore the zoo through a variety of activities, including nature hikes, animal observations, games, and crafts. Accredited by the American Camp Association, the Zoo Camp program provides a safe and enriching environment for young explorers to connect with nature and wildlife.

Advanced Inquiry Program: Championing Change

For working professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of conservation and environmental issues, Brookfield Zoo offers the Advanced Inquiry Program. This master’s degree program, developed in collaboration with Miami University, is designed to empower individuals to champion change through collaborative inquiry and action.

College & High School Internship: Hands-on Learning

Brookfield Zoo’s internship program provides valuable hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities for students and graduates interested in pursuing careers in fields such as zoology, biology, conservation, research, education, and more. These immersive experiences allow participants to gain practical skills and insights into the inner workings of a world-class zoo.

ZAP Programs: Multigenerational Connections

Brookfield Zoo’s ZAP (Zoological Adventure Programs) offer multigenerational experiential learning opportunities that foster connections between participants, wildlife, and nature. These programs take place both on-site at the zoo and in various locations throughout the Chicagoland area, providing diverse learning experiences.

Seedlings Programs: Nurturing Young Explorers

Designed for children under 4 years old, Brookfield Zoo’s Seedlings Programs allow parents and toddlers to engage in singing, dancing, exploring, and playing alongside the zoo’s staff and animals, particularly at the Hamill Family Play Zoo.

King Conservation Science Scholars: Exploring Conservation Careers

The King Conservation Science Scholars program is tailored for high school students interested in exploring conservation-related careers. Through workshops, research expeditions, and hands-on career exploration, participants can gain valuable insights and experiences in the field of conservation.

Field Trips and Educator Resources: Supporting Classroom Learning

Brookfield Zoo offers comprehensive resources and planning tools to help educators organize engaging and educational field trips for their students. Additionally, the zoo provides a range of educational materials, including lesson plans, multimedia content, and professional development opportunities, to support teachers in enhancing their classroom and promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning.

Learning Resources and Classroom Resources: Empowering Educators and Students

Brookfield Zoo’s extensive learning resources, such as the Teaching Safari, offer a wealth of information and tools to support educators and students in their learning journey. The zoo also provides a comprehensive set of classroom resources, including lesson materials, activities, and multimedia content, to help teachers effectively integrate wildlife and conservation topics into their curriculum.

Zoo Talks: Engaging Educational Presentations

Brookfield Zoo’s educational talks and presentations, known as Zoo Talks, are designed for school groups. These interactive sessions focus on various aspects of wildlife and conservation, providing students with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.

Reservations and Directory

To make reservations for a self-guided field trip, Connections Class, or Zoo Talk, educators can contact Brookfield Zoo’s education department directly to book their preferred date and time. The zoo’s directory and hours of operation can also be found on their website, with the zoo being open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with extended hours during the summer months.

Brookfield Zoo’s diverse range of classes and programs offer a unique and engaging way to learn about wildlife and conservation, promoting STEAM education and fostering a love for nature and science among participants of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a family seeking a fun and educational adventure, an educator looking to enhance your teaching, or a lifelong learner interested in exploring the wonders of the natural world, Brookfield Zoo has something to offer.

References:
– Brookfield Zoo Teacher Classes
– Brookfield Zoo Education
– Brookfield Zoo Camp
– Brookfield Zoo Classroom Resources
– Brookfield Zoo Teacher Classes