FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (August 24, 2011)

LITTLE ONES HAVE LOTS OF FUN AT PRESCHOOL AT THE ZOO
Fall Semester Starts September 7. Register now

Children who enjoy reading about animals or watching shows starring various creatures, will love learning more about the wild things at the Dallas Zoo. The interactive curriculum introduces students to the world of animals and nature. Activities include hands-on learning centers, live animal encounters, Zoo exploration time, crafts, snacks, and more. Preschool programs follow early-childhood curriculum guidelines for Texas and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and include goals for the Council for Environmental Education. Children develop skills in language, literacy, phonemic awareness, creative arts, problem solving, critical thinking, mathematical skills, scientific thinking and observation, and cooperation and social skills. Registration is now open.

Students can enroll in a 14-week series of classes or single-day options. Preregistration is required:

Cub Club classes are for children age 15 months to 2 years with one parent. Classes are held on Wednesdays or Fridays and are one hour long, from 10-11 a.m. Parents and children may stay in the Zoo after each class. First class begins September 7. Series cost: $200 ($179 for DZS members); Individual classes $15 ($13.50 for DZS members).

Nature Tykes classes are for children ages 3 to young 4s. The three-hour classes are offered on Wednesday afternoon 12:30-3:30 p.m. or Thursday morning 8:30-11:30 a.m. or afternoon 12:30-3:30 p.m. The first class begins September 7. Series cost: $340 ($315 for DZS members); Individual classes $25 ($23 for DZS members).

A to Zoo Preschool Safari classes are for children ages 4 to young 5s. The three-hour classes are offered on Thursday mornings 8:30-11:30 a.m. or Friday afternoons 12:30-3:30 p.m. The first class begins September 8. Series cost: $340 ($315 for DZS members); Individual classes $25 ($23 for DZS members).

Space is limited so register now. For details on classes and topics or to register, visit the Education link at www.DallasZoo.com, e-mail education@dallaszoo.com, or call (469) 554-7300.