Education

Youth (5-14)

Ride the wave and splash into Shedducation. 

We’ve got programs that will inspire and amaze you, whatever your age. We’ve got what you love: animals, adventure and academics (the fun kind). What’s keeping you? Be the cool kid on the block. Tell your friends you hang out at Shedd.

shedd imageScout Explorers: Patch Program
Sept. 26, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
$15 a person ($10 Shedd members)

Take a Shedd adventure with your youth group and earn a “Shedd Patch” for everyone. As a Scout Explorer, you will investigate the waters of the world through a guided exploration of the aquarium. During a 40-minute learning lab full of interactive projects, you’ll build connections to aquatic life and experience the reward of personal discoveries. Light snacks will be provided.

Due to the customizable nature of this program, registration is required by Sept. 21. Please e-mail familes@sheddaquarium.org to register.


shedd imageShedd Explorers: Local Waters Field Day
Get dirty to help clean up our natural world! Set off as an explorer in our Local Waters exhibit and then transform into a citizen scientist as we comb the beach for pollution. Partner with other 11- to 14-year-olds and Shedd staff members in continuing efforts to keep our local environment healthy. 

Oct. 3, 9 a.m.–noon
Price: $30 a person ($20 Shedd members)

To register, call 312-692-3206. For more information, e-mail families@sheddaquarium.org.


shedd imageScout Explorers: Conservation Badge Program
Oct.17, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
$15 a person ($10 Shedd members)

Check off your conservation-based requirements for Scout badges with interactive aquatic science. Enjoy Lake Michigan while engaging in lakeshore activities and exploration of earth-friendly tools/resources. Continue your journey through Shedd’s exhibits and discover the impact you have on the aquatic world. Light snacks will be provided.

We will work with your group to meet your badge requirements as closely as possible.

Due to the customizable nature of this program, registration is required by Sept. 21. Please e-mail familes@sheddaquarium.org to register.


Shedd overnightsAsleep with the Fishes Group Overnights
Grab your sleeping bag and pillow and join us for an overnight adventure at Shedd Aquarium. Before snuggling into your sleeping bag, immerse yourself in the world’s many aquatic environments through special programs, games and hands-on activities. In the morning, enjoy a continental breakfast and visit with the animals once more before your journey comes to an end. These programs are geared for children in kindergarten to grade 6.

2009 Dates
Oct. 23, Nov. 20
6:30 p.m. Friday – 8:30 a.m. Saturday
2010 Dates
Jan. 29, Feb. 5, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 5, March 19

To register, call 312-692-3206. For more information, download brochure.


shedd imageShedd Explorers Weekends
Bring your love for aquatic life to a special program for 11- to 14-year-olds. Join a team of other young people to complete exciting challenges and make amazing discoveries. Immerse yourself in the natural world and practice how you can make a difference.

Nov. 7 – Oceanarium Animal Care

Price: $27 a person ($19 Shedd members)
Time: 1–3 p.m.

To register, call 312-692-3206. For more information, e-mail families@sheddaquarium.org.


shedd imageShedd Explorers Summer Camp
Become the next generation of natural world ambassadors. Join us as we dive into the world of aquatic animals. Explore 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 and work with other tweens and teens to spread the word about the power of making a difference.

Each camp session runs Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
11- to 12-year olds
July 13 –17

Price: $285 a person ($255 Shedd members)

Registration closed. Join our e-mail list to learn about upcoming programs.



shedd imageSummer Worlds Tour
This summer camp on Chicago’s Museum Campus is for children ages 5 to 10 years old. Campers will explore the worlds beyond Earth at the Adler Planetarium, experience the lives of Real Pirates at the Field Museum and transform into underwater explorers at Shedd Aquarium. Activities include investigating exhibits, creating original art projects, playing learning games and having lunch along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Choose one of the four one-week long sessions beginning July 6.
Session I: July 6–10        11 to 12 year olds
Session II: July 13–17     11 to 12 year olds
Session III: July 20–24    13 to 14 year olds
Session IV: July 27–31    13 to 14 year olds

Registration closed. Join our e-mail list to learn about upcoming programs.

Discounts on many educational programs and classes is just one of the great perks of Shedd membership. Become a member today!

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