At Animal Humane Society, we believe in nurturing a love for animals from a young age. Our education programs offer kids and families opportunities to learn about animals in fun, hands-on ways. But with so many choices, it can be tricky to know which program best fits your child’s interests and passions.  

Here’s a breakdown of the education programs we offer to help you find the perfect fit for your young animal lover. 

1. School Break and Summer Camps

AHS offers camp both during the summer and during breaks in the school year, like MEA and winter break, for grades 3-10. Camps are perfect for children who want a hands-on, immersive experience with animals (and for parents who need a little help filling their child's schedule on no-school days).

Benefits

• Unique, unforgettable experiences that campers can return to year after year. 
• Conveniently offered during school breaks and over the summer to keep your child engaged in learning, even when school’s out. 
• Features fun, animal-related educational activities, including games, crafts, and even animal interactions! 
• Themed half-day summer camps for animal lovers who love art, science, or are thinking about an animal-related career. 

2. Future Vet Workshops

Future Vet workshops are perfect for those who aspire to become veterinarians or work in veterinary care in the future. For children in grades 3-8, this program immerses students in the world of shelter medicine, offering a behind-the-scenes look at veterinary medicine in action.  

Benefits 

• Tailored workshops for different grade levels offer unique, age-appropriate curriculum. 
• Hands-on learning in a supportive environment and a chance to meet real veterinary professionals. 
• A deep dive in veterinary medicine including practicing surgery skills on pretend patients, listening to animal heartbeats, and discussing shelter treatment plans. Some groups may even observe a spay or neuter surgery! 

3. Project Purpose

Does your child love animals and want to make a difference in their community? This semester-long program for grades 3-10 is perfect for young animal advocates looking for a program that's both fun and meaningful.

Benefits

• While the minimum age to volunteer at AHS is 16, younger teens and children can participate in meaningful service work through Project Purpose. 
• Students learn about animal welfare and get a behind-the-scenes look at an animal shelter while participating in hands-on service projects.  
• Project purpose can also be used to fulfill school or club community service requirements. 
• Students develop teamwork, leadership, and advocacy skills. 

4. Rescue Readers 

This one-hour program is perfect for children (and people of all ages) who are looking to spend more time with animals while practicing their reading skills. Participants have the opportunity to read to the animals in our adoption centers, providing soothing company to dogs, cats, and critters as they await adoption.  

Benefits 

• New readers gain confidence and improve their reading skills by practicing in a non-judgmental environment with our adoptable animals. 
• Reading has a calming effect on our shelter animals and offers more opportunities for them to socialize with people. 
• One-hour sessions at our three adoption locations make it easy to fit into your schedule. 

5. Furry Tales Story Time 

Furry Tales is a story time program perfect for children ages 5 and under and their caregivers. Each month features a picture storybook read by one of our humane educators, followed by a craft or activity and special time with an animal.  

Benefits 

• Spark a love for animals and foster empathy from a young age. 
• Encourage a passion for reading with fun, interactive storybooks and animal-related activities. 
• Enjoy a fun, educational outing with your family, and bond with other local, animal-loving parents. 

6. Paint My Pet 

Paint My Pet makes the perfect activity for the whole family! Participants get to embrace their inner artists by painting a portrait of their dog, cat, or critter. With Family, Kids Only (Ages 10-18), and Adults Only (18+) sessions, everyone can have fun creating one-of-a-kind artwork and memories along the way. 

Benefits 

• No previous painting experience is needed. Paint under the guidance of an experienced artist. 
• Canvas, easel, and all other painting supplies will be provided. 
• A fun, interactive way to spend time as a family and create unforgettable memories. 

7. School and community group programs

Is your child involved in a scout troop or club? Are they in a class of other animal lovers? Animal Humane Society is thrilled to engage with students within and outside of the classroom through shelter tours, interactive scout programs, and educational presentations by our Humane Educators. 

Benefits 

• Fun, engaging activities lead by our team of educators introduces students to AHS and animal welfare. 
• Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts are invited to visit AHS for our interactive, animal-themed scout programs – and even earn a badge! 
• Flexible programming available for in-shelter visits or at your school or program site.