The Wonder Gardens has openings for students ages 6 to 12 years in weekly Winter Camp Wonder day camp sessions offering fun and creative outdoor activities.
“We invite local and visiting children to celebrate our resident animals and plants as they explore cultural and artistic connections and tap into their creative sides,” said Education and Volunteer Manager Katie Grimes. “Activities include inquiry-based tours, games, science, art and free time.”
Camp Winter Wonder sessions include:
- December 19-23: “World of Wonder” for ages 6-9 will explore resident animals, the countries where species live in their natural habitats, and some celebrations associated with those countries. Campers will make some special gifts for animals to help them celebrate the season.
- December 19-23: “Creatures and Cultures” for ages 10-12 will offer campers more advanced opportunities to get to know the animals, plants, and their global communities as well as design gifts through the lens of cultural inclusion and conservation.
- December 26-30: “Nature’s Canvas” for ages 6-9 will look at nature like an artist, exploring how animals create patterns and forms and then use similar processes for self-expression.
- December 26-30: “Wild Design” for ages 10-12 will give campers an opportunity for creative expression as they are inspired by natural elements, from scales and feathers to tendrils and fronds. Campers will tap into principles of sustainable design and draw on nature to inspire their own works of art.
Camp programs run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Winter Camp sessions are $200 per week for nonmembers and $175 a week for members. The camp staff includes youth, college and adult volunteers overseen by the Wonder Gardens Education Department.
Register at wondergardens.org/camps or contact Education and Volunteer Manager Katie Grimes for more information: Education@wondergarderns.org.
About Wonder Gardens
The Wonder Gardens, a charitable zoological park and botanical garden in Bonita Springs, is home to rescued birds and reptiles nestled among sprawling banyan trees and plantings. While preserving the best of this site’s 86-year history, the nonprofit cares for rescued, rehabilitated, and non-releasable animals, is upgrading wildlife enclosures and growing the botanical beauty of the property, while delivering education programs and events and further engaging the community to enjoy this jewel in historic Downtown Bonita Springs. The Wonder Gardens at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs is one of the few remaining cornerstones of Old Florida, an enduring symbol of the history of the region, as well as a resource for learning about the environment and wildlife. For information, visit wondergardens.org or call 239-992-2591.
