Zoo to You is a traveling educational program that visits schools, libraries, community centers, senior centers/housing, day care centers, scout groups, etc.  Each program includes live animals such as birds, reptiles, and invertebrates, among others, and some of the animals may be touchable.  We also use biofacts (animal-related artifacts) to create a hands-on experience for the participants.

Zoo to You offers programs on a variety of topics (adaptations, habitats, endangered species, etc.), and our programs are designed to be suitable for specified age groups.  We have programs available for ages 3 through adult.  Please see our curriculum list below for specific program details.

Programs are designed to foster hands-on, interactive learning.  To facilitate this, we recommend that you reserve small group programs (fewer than 30 participants) for your group.  We are happy to conduct consecutive programs for several small groups as well.  If your group’s schedule requires one large group, auditorium style presentation, we offer those also.  Please see our pricing structure below for more details.

If you are planning a group visit to the zoo, we can conduct your Zoo to You program right here in our classrooms!

To reserve a Zoo to You Program, contact: Christine Howell, Education Coordinator
(315) 435-8511 ext. 206 or zootoyou@rosamondgiffordzoo.org.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zoo to You
  • What is the Zoo to You program?
    Zoo to You is a traveling educational program that visits schools, libraries, community centers, senior centers/housing, day care centers, scout groups, etc.  Each program includes live animals such as birds, reptiles, and invertebrates, among others, and some of the animals may be touchable.  We also use biofacts (animal-related artifacts) to create a hands-on experience for the participants.  Zoo to You is presented by professional Zoo educators.
     
  • What are the operating hours of the Zoo to You program?
    Zoo to You has a very flexible schedule: weekdays, evenings, or weekends!  Please call to check for availability.
     
  • What lessons does the Zoo to You program teach?
    Zoo to You strives to integrate its message into what lessons or subject matter your facility is teaching. Please refer to the list of program options below. If you do not see a theme that interests you, please ask to speak to the Zoo to You coordinator and the coordinator may be able to arrange for a specialized program for your organization. Amazing Adaptations is recommended for those organizations that are interested in a general program on animals.  A main goal of Zoo to You is to increase awareness of the animal kingdom, and encourage participants to be environmentally conscious.
     
  • How long is the Zoo to You program?
    Each program lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour.  The educator adjusts the length of each program based on the interest of the participants.  The educator will also shorten or cancel any program if the welfare of the animals is compromised in any way.
     
  • How many participants are recommended for each program?
    The Zoo suggests no more than 30 participants per program. This amount of participants allows a more hands-on approach. The participants will touch some of the animals and be able to participate directly in the program. If you have more than 30 participants, we recommend more than one program at a reduced rate. If the format of your program only allows for a large, auditorium like program, we have pricing for this type of program as well.
     
  • How much does a Zoo to You program cost?
    The price of each Zoo to You program depends on the size and location of each program. Please see price sheet below for cost. Please note that the price of the program may change, so please confirm the price with the reservationist before booking your program. We request that payment is made in full two weeks in advance to keep your confirmation.
     
  • How soon in advance must I reserve my program?
    We request that each program is booked a minimum of three weeks in advance. We recommend that you reserve your program ASAP as dates book quickly.  Spring (April, May, and June) is the busiest time of year, and these dates fill up weeks or even months in advance.  Call the Zoo at 435-8511 ext. 206 to reserve a program today!
     
  • What types of animals will visit my facility and how many?
    Generally, Zoo to You will bring 3 or 4 animals to your program.  The education collection at the zoo has a variety of small animals that are specifically chosen for outreach programming.  The types of animals we may use depend on the topic of the program.  For a list of our program animals, please click here.  Due to Zoo protocol regarding animal care and scheduling, we are unable to make any guarantees on which types of animals are brought for a program.  However, we strive to bring a variety of animals suitable for your group.  If you are scheduling multiple Zoo to You visits for your group, please let us know and we will be sure to bring different animals for each visit, in order to give your group a unique experience each time.
     
Topics and Curriculum Animals
Prices Scholarships
 

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