Helping kids connect with animals and nature all while having a lot of fun is the aim of the summer programs offered at EARTH Ltd. in partnership with Mendon’s Southwick’s Zoo.

“Our summer programs are different,” said Betsey Brewer, EARTH Ltd. founder and executive director. “We encourage kids to get close to animals and nature, developing an understanding, appreciation and empathy for all living creatures and our earth. The programs help kids become better stewards and, I think, better with each other. We also have a lot of fun. Kids love these programs.”

EARTH Ltd.’s Summer Wild Adventures offers age-geared, three-day to weeklong educational programs for K-11 students, June 18 through Aug. 8. The full-day and half-day sessions include There’s No Such Thing as a …, which reveals animal myths and realities for fourth through sixth graders; From T-Rex to Turkeys, which explores evolution for kindergarteners through second graders; Going, Going, Gone, which has second through fifth graders studying extinction; and more.

Teen Zoology programs encourage middle and high school students to dig more deeply into animal behaviors, native species and conservation.

“These popular programs fill up quickly,” said Brewer, adding the sessions are perfect for students exploring a biology, zoology or similar career.

“Our programs are curriculum-driven but with a lot of fun,” said Brewer. “Massachusetts certified teachers lead the programs.”

She noted many youngsters come back yearly, building their knowledge and connection to nature.

“I recently heard from one young woman, now in her 20s, who told me how our programs have impacted her life,” said Brewer.

EARTH Ltd. also offers one-day, age-geared, Junior Zookeeping sessions for ages 6-13 and Explorer Zookeeping programs for ages 14-17. Both explore how animals are cared for at the zoo and what it takes to be a zookeeper.

“These are all such valuable programs,” Brewer said. “They give kids a chance to connect with nature and to develop respect for animals and the world.”

Another highlight of this year’s programs will be the grand opening of the Earth Connections Center later in the summer. The center, which offers new ways to connect with nature, will host the 2026 summer programs.

More information (including registration details) about any of the summer programs can be found at earthltd.org. EARTH Ltd. members receive a 15% discount on Summer Wild Adventures programs.

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