Brookfield Zoo

Based on its award-winning nature play programs, the Chicago Zoological Society will create and test a training program and early childhood nature play curriculum for use by education professionals at museums, zoos, aquariums, and nature centers. In partnership with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Natural Learning Initiative at North Carolina State University, and Chicago Wilderness, the project will develop a corps of early childhood nature play professionals across the country. IMLS funding will support pilot training programs, an online distance learning and peer support network, a comprehensive evaluation, and a strategic plan for program sustainability and growth. A minimum of 50 practitioners will complete the pilot trainings during the project period and, upon completion, these individuals will then provide training to 500 educators in their own organizations.