At the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, learning isn’t limited to the classroom. It comes alive through real-world encounters with amazing animals, hands-on discovery and unforgettable adventures in nature. The Zoo’s Education Department is dedicated to inspiring curiosity, conservation and care for our planet through programs that educate, entertain and excite learners of all ages.
At the Sanford Zoo, education programs play a vital role in helping children and families understand the importance of wildlife and ecosystems, inspiring them to take action to protect our planet. Through every animal encounter, guided tour and interactive lesson, participants learn that even small actions can make a big difference for wildlife conservation.
Learning about the world we share with animals should be fun, engaging and full of wonder. That’s why the Central Florida Zoo’s education programs combine exploration, creativity and hands-on experiences to bring nature to life. Each program invites kids and adults to explore, discover, and grow—all while sparking a lifelong love of animals and conservation.
Little explorers can dive into discovery with Cub Club, the Orlando Zoo’s popular preschool program for ages 2–5. Through stories, play, crafts and up-close animal meet-and-greets, children begin their journey into the natural world in a fun and inspiring environment. For more information about upcoming classes and to register, click here.
The adventure doesn’t stop when school is out. The Zoo is open and offers school break camps throughout the year to keep students learning, while having wild fun! These camps allow kids to explore the Zoo and enjoy various activities all designed to inspire curiosity.
For homeschool families, Homeschool ZOOventures offers themed monthly learning days that blend STEM-based lessons with unforgettable animal encounters. Kids get hands-on with science, explore in a new environment all while having a wildly good time.
The Zoo is proud to partner with Sanford Middle School’s Pre-Vet Program, offering hands-on experiences for students passionate about animal care and veterinary science. Through opportunities like shadowing animal keepers and touring the Zoo’s veterinary facilities, these aspiring wildlife professionals gain invaluable, real-world insight into caring for animals.
Education doesn’t stay behind the Zoo gates. With Zoo to You, the Zoo’s educators bring the wonder of wildlife directly to schools, libraries, and community centers across Central Florida. These mobile programs feature our Ambassador Animals and interactive activities that help students connect with conservation no matter where they are. For more information contact our Education Department at 407-323-4450 ext. 123 or email education@centralfloridazoo.org.
The Central Florida Zoo’s Education Department aims to inspire people to take action for wildlife. Every camp class and outreach program opens the door to new discoveries and empowers learners to make positive changes for our planet. Nature-based learning not only boosts academic performance and critical thinking skills but also nurtures empathy, creativity, and awareness of the world around us.
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is proud to make learning fun and to help every visitor see that together, we can make a difference for wildlife and the environment. To learn more about the Zoo’s educational programs, click here.
