ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

 

Offered: Year-round, in various locations around the Chicago metropolitan area
Audience: All ages

Summary: Chicago’s motto is “Urbs in Horto” or “City in a Garden” because of the many green spaces in and around its metropolitan area. This programmatic structure supports individuals and families in their exploration of some of these local gems by offering a variety programs and activities that highlight the assets of each space. This approach allows individuals to determine how they wish to “Connect. Care. Conserve.” by making positive memories as they choose their own adventure within a natural space.

Each program features the structures discussed in subsequent slides to varying degrees.

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (1 of 7)

ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

Facilitated Learning 

Brookfield Zoo Chicago staff and local collaborators for these programs offer hands-on activities that provide the opportunity to connect with nature using constructive play-based strategies.

Activities may include: Art-based creative expressions using natural materials or nature as inspiration; making feeders, puddlers, or other habitat support items that help local wildlife; making seed balls, decorating personal planters, etc. 

While these activities may often be guided by facilitators inititially, participants that show natural leadership abilities are encouraged to support others in attendance—regardless of their age. Additionally, space is provided for individuals who choose to independently participate, create, and problem-solve.

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (2 of 7)

ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

Field Exploration

Guided and independent field exploration allows individuals to connect to nature and wildlife while also engaging in authentic scientific practices used in environmental science and conservation.

Activities may include: Guided nature walks, natural scavenger hunts, connecting to guest naturalists, hands-on demonstrations connected to environmental surveying and sampling, etc.

Resources may include: Species identification guides, binoculars, microscopes, magnifying glasses, bug boxes, nets, waders, buckets and sieves, etc.  

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (3 of 7)

ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

Conservation Action

Each of us has a vital role in protecting natural green spaces. While our programs aim to "leave no trace" as we dispose of waste properly, we may encounter evidence of negative impacts on the environment of our location in the form of trash and litter that may have been there prior to our arrival. When this happens, participants are provided real-life opportunities to help leave the space better for others to enjoy. 

Resources may include: gloves, garbage bags, trash grabber tools, etc.

Through collaboration with some naturalist groups, our programs may at times align to support the removal of invasive plant species as part of the clean-up efforts. 

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (4 of 7)

ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

Family Fun

Any positive experience in nature serves as a connection that leads to personal care for the environment. This is strengthened when you do it with people you care for and who care for you. All of our activities in ZCSA have play-based strategies integrated into them. After all, playing is learning!

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) shares, "the impulse to play comes from a natural desire to understand the world." Regardless of our age, we never outgrow this desire. Allow your inner child to enjoy exploring sensory bins, nature play blocks, books, games, toys, outdoor sports equipment, etc. alongside your family and community.

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (5 of 7)

ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

Cultural Relevance

The Chicago metropolitan area has so much to explore and learn about from a natural lens, but more importantly from a socio-cultural lens. The diversity of the spaces and communities featured in ZCSA are an important part of this program.

As humans, we are part of the environment. And as a result, anything that is part of our identity is also interconnected to the environment — our traditions, celebrations, art, dance, music, heritage, and unique expression. 

Recognizing this, our team uses aspects of this program to support the development of socio-cultural events at Brookfield Zoo Chicago and in its surrounding communities. This intentional exploration of collaborative relationships with various cultural institutions enriches the beauty of community celebrations.

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (6 of 7)

ZAP!: Conservation Science Adventures

Programmatic Events

KCLA focuses on community assets, showing how conservation work must include collaboration, community, and culture—resulting in several annual programmatic events:

• Celebration of Lunar New Year
• Black Birders' Week
• Hispanic Heritage Fest
• Dia de Los Muertos—Community Ofrenda for beloved animals
• Celebration of Native American Heritage
• Environmental Education and Stewardship with: Forest Preserves of Cook County, Village of Riverside, Village of Brookfield, Chicago Park District 

These include collaborations with individuals and organizations from the community, but they also allow for us to form community advisory teams, including youth advisory teams consisting of King Scholars looking to gain leadership skills and opportunities that help inform development and delivery of ZCSA programming.

Please feel free to navigate through these slides to learn more about this programmatic structure. (7 of 7)