Last year when so many parents were navigating new challenges surrounding remote learning due to coronavirus concerns, the Santa Barbara Zoo expanded its existing Outdoor Education programs, and launched Early Explorers, a play-based early education program for children ages 3 to 5, which is first zoo preschool in California.

After a successful first session, the zoo has announced the Early Explorers program has received the green light to operate fulltime, and is the first Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoo with a full-time preschool, providing one of the most unique educational experiences available.

“We are so proud to offer a truly one-of-a-kind, outdoor preschool experience for parents that is rich with hands-on learning, provides kinder readiness, and most importantly is at a zoo,” said J.J. McLeod, Santa Barbara Zoo’s director of education. “Children are surrounded by wildlife that they get to learn about, visit regularly, and develop a natural appreciation for their conservation.

“Where else do you get to hear the roar of lion while at school?”

The play-based Early Explorers education program focuses on teaching through experiences. Participants will learn appreciation for the natural world through gardening, outdoor play, art, and exploration in the zoo’s 28-acre outdoor classroom.

With a student-to-teacher ratio of 9 to 1, students are placed in mixed-age groups to enhance development of academic and social skills through STEAM activities; and prepare them for kindergarten. Animal encounters, sustainability and garden education, art, and zoo train rides are incorporated into the childcare program.

Early Explorer educators follow all safety protocols as per COVID-19 guidelines, including wearing masks and frequent sanitizing.

Registration is open for preschool at the zoo; t-shirt included with registration. Schedule options vary from full-time to part-time. For details and to register, click here. For more about the Santa Barbara Zoo, visit www.sbzoo.org.