Learning about wildlife, connecting with nature and having a lot of fun are in store for kids attending the Summer Wild Adventure Programs conducted by EARTH Ltd. in partnership with Southwick’s Zoo, Mendon.

“The program is really cool, kids love it,” said Betsey Brewer, EARTH Ltd. founder and executive director.

The weeklong educational programs, which start June 22 and run through mid-August, include half- and full-day sessions for students in grades K-11.

“The kids have a chance to be immersed in the zoo that now has over 850 animals, learn from guest speakers, do arts and crafts, and make their own tie-dye T-shirts. They have so much fun,” said Brewer.

Beyond fun, Brewer believes the sessions help participants grow.

“It is so important to connect kids with nature in this era of technology. But even more so, kids who attend our program leave with a bigger sense of caring. I think it helps them with their own self-esteem,” she said. “To me, when you’re connecting with animals, you’re developing empathy, caring and understanding. What could be more important than that?”

Sessions are done by grade level and include everything from Zoo Babies & Animal Behavior for kindergarten through second grade youngsters, to Teen Zoology for middle and high school students.

“The zoology courses, which fill up so quickly, speak to the teen who might be interested in a career working with wildlife as a zookeeper or vet,” said Brewer. “It is important for them to find out what they want to do as well as what they don’t want to do with their lives.”

This year, the program will be located in the new Earth Nature Center that is adjacent to Southwick’s Zoo. According to Brewer, “This year’s campers will get to enjoy the beautiful new Nature Center, explore gardens and learning spaces, and experience wildlife and conservation in ways that inspire curiosity, wonder and a lasting love of nature.”

More information about the 2026 programs can be found at EarthLtd.org/wild-adventure-programs/summer or by emailing Bob Clark, program director, at EarthLtdSummerProgram@gmail.com. Registration is done through the website earthltd.org, with EARTH Ltd. members receiving a 10% discount.

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