Connecting with Nature Through Play
At our revolutionary Hamill Family Play Zoo, play is the key to connecting with nature. The Play Zoo was designed to provide naturally inspiring experiences for children age 10 and under, as well as their families, caregivers, and educators.
Kids can dig in the dirt, discover insects, wade in a stream, make environmentally friendly crafts, and learn to care for pets. And they can get involved in more “serious” play as well, role-playing what it’s like to be a keeper, a veterinarian, or even a zoo director.
The Play Zoo provides children, parents, and caregivers with developmentally appropriate opportunities to interact with animals, plants, and the outdoors. Play Partners—educators with special training in early childhood environmental education—are on hand to help create unique nature-play experiences and to provide guidance on incorporating play opportunities into a child’s daily life.