Education
Child and Teen Program Listings
Shedd Explorers Weekends
Shedd Explorers is a program geared for students ages 11 to 14 who are energized by aquatic science and want to participate in exciting challenges, make new discoveries and get unique glimpses of Shedd. Join us and uncover a new endeavor each session and discover how we can impact our natural world.
Each program takes place on Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Price: $27 per person ($19 per person Shedd members). Includes admission to the aquarium only.
Join our e-mail list to be the first to hear about upcoming programs.
Asleep with the Fishes Group Overnights
Have your community youth group grab their sleeping bags and pillows and join us for an overnight adventure at Shedd Aquarium. Before snuggling in for a night at the aquarium, they will be immersed in many aquatic environments through special programs, games and hands-on activities — including exploration of the reimagined Oceanarium. In the morning, they'll enjoy a continental breakfast and visit with the animals once more before the journey comes to an end. These programs are geared for children in kindergarten to grade 6. (You must be at least 5 years old to spend the night.)
Each overnight program runs from 6:30 p.m. on Friday to 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.
2009 Dates:
- Oct. 9
- Oct. 23
- Nov. 20
2010 Dates:
- Jan. 29
- Feb. 5
- Feb. 12
- Feb. 26
- March 5
- March 19
To Register
Download program brochure and registration materials or call 312-692-3206.
Questions? E-mail groupovernights@sheddaquarium.org.
Join our e-mail list to be the first to hear about upcoming programs.
Shedd Explorers Summer Camp
Our newly renovated Oceanarium is waiting for you. Join us as we dive into the world of aquatic animals. Explore the stories of a changing climate and how animals, environments and even humans are changing. Journey with us to a local ecosystem to help make your positive mark on the environment. Work with other tweens and teens to spread the word about the power of making a difference.
Each camp session runs Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Choose a one-week session based on the camper's age.
For 13 to 14-year olds:
June 22 - 26; SOLD OUT
For 11 to 12-year olds:
July 6 - 10; SOLD OUT
July 13 - 17; SOLD OUT
Fee: $285 per person ($255 Shedd members)
Registration is required. Please call 312-692-3206. For more information or questions, please e-mail families@sheddaquarium.org.
Summer Mentor Programs for Teens
High School Lake Ecology (HSLE) and High School Marine Biology (HSMB) are Shedd Aquarium’s field-based summer high school programs. Although two very different experiences, both programs offer an exciting opportunity for students to travel and investigate the world of aquatic science while experiencing life on the open water. Students will work closely with Shedd Aquarium scientists and experts in the field, getting an insider’s look into careers related to aquatic science, conservation and the environment. Students can apply to both programs to increase their chances of participation; however, only one program can be completed per summer.
High School Marine Biology (HSMB)
Shedd’s High School Marine Biology Program is designed for the student who wants to explore marine science as a possible career. Students are introduced to marine biology and the scientific method in a classroom setting at Shedd Aquarium and then apply this knowledge by conducting research in the Bahamas on Shedd's live-aboard vessel, the R/V Coral Reef II. This program is available to students in the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Michigan and Wisconsin.
Once again in 2009, through our partnership with Wilderness Classroom, students, teachers, parents and friends will be able to learn right along with HSMB participants via postings, podcasts, blogs, photos, videos, informational resources and even direct communication on the web. Check out the ship's blog.
High School Lake Ecology (HSLE)
High School Lake Ecology provides high school students the adventure of life on the open water while exploring aquatic science and the Great Lakes ecosystem. Participants will live and work aboard the Denis Sullivan, a 137-foot schooner, while sailing on Lake Michigan. This program is available to students in the following Illinois counties: Cook, Lake, McHenry, Kane, DuPage, Kendall, Will, Grundy and Kankakee.
Join our e-mail list to be the first to hear about upcoming programs.
The Young Naturalists program invites 15 outgoing and motivated Chicago high school students to join Shedd in creatively connecting aquarium guests to nature. The Young Naturalists will receive training in educational techniques to help them share the knowledge they've gained through their exploration of Shedd. This six-week program is an intensive work experience that serves to introduce students to the professional world of natural science education.
For your application to be considered you must fulfill all of the requirements listed below:
- Be a resident of the city of Chicago
- Be a Chicago high school student between the ages of 15 and 18
(you must be 15 by June 6, 2009) - Have completed at least one year of high school science
Join our e-mail list to be the first to hear about upcoming programs.
Monthly meetings; fall or spring semester
Fee: $75; needs-based scholarships are available
Club Shedd is for high school students interested in aquatic science and the environment. Participants enjoy monthly meetings featuring presentations, environmental discussions, career exploration, local field trip opportunities and the camaraderie of students with similar interests.
Requirements: Participant must be in 9th to 12th grade and be at least 14 years old.
Download information about the Club Shedd program.
Download the Club Shedd registration form for the 2008-2009 sessions. Please fax back forms to Maggie Kurcz at 312-663-1472.
Discounts on many educational programs and classes is just one of the great perks of Shedd membership. Become a member today!
