WOW Safari is an educational camp for elementary aged kids packed full of hands-on learning and group adventure.
“It’s a day of exploration,” Elementary Education Specialist Bailey Thomas said. “They get to work with other like-minded students and get to participate in experiments, outdoor explorations, interact with animals, and learn more about conservation and nature.”
WOW Safari happens numerous times throughout the year. From the week-long Spring Fling WOW Safari to half-day Thanksgiving WOW Safari, no two sessions are the same.
WOW Safari focuses on exploration through S.T.E.A.M.- Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics.
“The great things about the natural world is all of those are intertwined effortlessly,” Thomas said. “So, we can highlight different elements of those through fun hands-on activities that allow students to learn without knowing that they’re actually learning.”
This class allows its students to interact with nature and animals through science experiments, nature hikes, and art projects. WOW Safari also fosters problem-solving skills.
“We try to provide students some unstructured time throughout the day to create friendships and to problem solve together,” Thomas said. “We find that students develop those problem-solving skills and are able to create collaborative relationships and build a better understanding of the world when they are able to have that unguided time. We allow students to use their experiences to better themselves.”
WOW Safari encourages students to get messy and learn new things. Students should arrive in closed-toed shoes and dressed for the weather. Rain or shine, this class explores the outdoors.
“Expect to be outside,” Thomas said. “As long as the weather is safe, expect to be interacting with animals and nature.”
WOW Safari is also a great opportunity for collaborative learning. Students often break into groups, enjoying activities and learning together.
“By the end of the week, everyone has their favorite animal that we highlighted and talked about,” Thomas said. “I love developing relationships with the students throughout the week and watching them grow friendships and interact with each other.”
Check out the Zoo Calendar to find out more about upcoming WOW Safaris
