Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo will enhance and expand its nature play program for early childhood learners by refining its work with family groups. Targeting at-risk students at three urban schools, the zoo will conduct a needs assessment, expand its advisory family group, and offer nature play modeling and coaching workshops. The zoo will redesign its current family engagement programming and offer new activities, such as pop-up learning events and take-home kits. The project will help parents and caregivers become active partners in their children's nature exploration during their 3- to 5-year-olds' critical brain development phase. The zoo's Nature Play Facilitation Training Module will be enhanced to focus on the specific needs of an urban audience, and zoo staff members will attend enhanced nature play facilitation training.