After 12 years of instilling a love of nature into young minds, our Zoo Sprouts program has been recognized on a national level with the Edward Zigler Innovation Award! We were nominated by our local Head Start organization for this honor that recognizes outstanding partnerships that strengthen early childhood education through innovation, collaboration and community impact.  

In partnership with Brevard School District, Zoo Sprouts offers special activities for children in local Head Start and Step FOURward programs with the hope of inspiring them to explore the outdoors with their families.  

“This program builds a strong partnership between Brevard Zoo and Brevard County Schools, and their families by offering engaging, hands-on learning experiences through play and animal interaction,” said Sky Collier, our early childhood program manager. “It is meaningful because it brings education beyond the classroom, helping students develop curiosity, real-world understanding, and a lasting connection to wildlife and conservation.” 

Our Zoo team visits 69 classrooms—about 1,200 students—twice a year to lead these programs. In the first program called “Wiggly Wonders,” students learn about how animals move through different species of animal puppets and get a chance to inspect special biofacts to help them understand we all move with similar structures. 

“The children are encouraged to get up and move along with the educators,” Sky said.  

During our second program, the students enjoy nature play through special stations that let them enjoy outdoor freeplay with mud kitchens, worm exploration, habitat building and a sink or float experience.  

“This takes place at the schools’ outdoor playgrounds or nature space, where teachers and parents are encouraged to explore with the children leading the play,” Sky said.  

All of the classes come to the Zoo to explore on a field trip—with the chance to enjoy our Exceptional Nature Space for free play as well.  

This program has some impactful results, according to our program evaluations. Just a few statistics:  

• 85% of parents stated the program has positively enhanced their child’s development   

• 80% of parents stated their children demonstrated an increased interest in science  

• 80% of families started spending more time outside together   

• 85% of families stated their child felt more comfortable spending time outdoors  

• All teachers and 90% of parents believe that nature play is a worthwhile way to introduce children to animals and nature   

• All teachers stated that the program enhanced their students’ critical thinking skills 

• All teachers stated the program increased their ability and confidence to provide outdoor instructions and helped them learn new skills and knowledge   

• 90% of teachers stated they will continue to learn more about nature play as part of their own professional development 

We hope to continue inspiring Head Start/Step FOURward students, parents and teachers for years to come!  

Zoo Sprouts’ impact is made possible by Amazon, PNC Foundation, Harper Family Charitable Foundation, Inc. and a Spark Good local grant from our local Walmarts!