Junior Zookeeper days can often be long and exhausting for our youngest campers. That's one big lesson we learned in 2008. So, this summer, we're creating a series of special "Junior Explorer" days to give our youngest campers a chance to visit the nature center for games, crafts, and special volunteer time from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. on days throughout the summer.
Much like the Junior Zookeeper program, Junior Explorer days are offered throughout the summer. A camper can sign up for a single class - such as a Monday class on "Feathered Friends" - or a series of classes, coming once a week throughout the summer. Families are encouraged to find the schedule that fits their budget and their summer calendar. (Dates for fall will be announced in mid-August.)
Cost
Individual Junior Explorer days cost $35. This cost covers their T-shirt, Junior Explorer notebook, as well as invitations to the graduation ceremony.
If campers would like to attend more days, they can sign up for our gold plan. Under this plan, they can choose five classes for $150. Additional classes are $30.
Daily Schedule
Each Junior Explorer day lasts for four hours, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Snacks and drinks are provided throughout the schedule. Each day includes hands-on classes with the animals, crafts, games, and special volunteer time.
Application
Junior Explorers can apply for the program using the same application as Junior Zookeepers. They will, however, need to mark their program as "Junior Explorer" and select Junior Explorer days from the list. A complete list of Junior Explorer days can be found on the 2009 Schedule page. Junior Explorer days are coded in blue.
