Educational Activities You Can Do at Home
The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is committed to supporting teachers, students and families around the globe. Below, you will find resources to engage learners in grades pre-K to 12 with science, the natural world, wildlife and conservation. Check back frequently for new activities.
Video Series
Explore Beyond Your Door
Grades K-5
Create a journal and earn badges as you explore beyond your door with your guide to the outside: education specialist Kaden. Episodes are 5 minutes long.
Watch Videos Start a Journal Download Badges
Wildlife Careers
Grades K-12; Standards: NGSS and Common Core
Four playful videos take you behind the scenes to learn about zoo jobs. A Video Content Guide provides questions and project-based learning activities for each video.
Watch the Videos Download Guide
Self-guided, Interactive Learning
All About Amphibians
Grades K-5
What is an amphibian? Why are they important? Explore these questions and more as you learn what you can do to help conserve amphibians.
Migratory Birds
Grades K-5
What is a migratory bird? Why do they migrate, and how far do they travel? Explore these questions, and find out how you can make your home bird-friendly.
Earth Optimism
Grades 6-12
Learn about six amazing species with conservation success stories that are sure to make you an Earth Optimist!
Zoo Highlights
All ages; Available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Japanese and Chinese
Take a "virtual visit" to the Zoo by learning more about some of the incredible animals in our care with this interactive lesson.
Animal Webcam Activities
Grades K-5; Standards: NGSS
Check in with lions, elephants, giant pandas, naked mole-rats, cheetahs and black-footed ferrets. The downloadable activity packet helps kids learn about animal behavior and habitats.
Watch Webcams Download Activities
Recycling Recess
All ages
Make something; make a difference! Take a brain break with these quick, easy and fun conservation craft activities for kids of all ages.
Curate a Collection No Sew Tote Bag Recycled Paper Beads Seed Paper Bird Feeder
Just for Fun
ZooCrew Family Guide
Pre-K to Grade 6; Also available in Spanish
This activity booklet engages children and adults together in learning about Zoo animals with games, activities, fun facts, stories and more.
Bird Migration Game
Grades K-5
Help Wanda the Wood Thrush travel from her winter home in Costa Rica to her summer home in Maryland.
Bird Nest Quiz
Grades 6-12
Can you name the nester? Use the research hints to analyze nest photos and discover which bird built each nest.
Classroom Activities and Lesson Plans for Educators
Rainforest Wonders
Pre-K to Grade 2
Move your body like a rainforest animal, create your own rainforest and take a sensory walk with activities inspired by "The Great Kapok Tree" by Lynn Cherry.
Rainforest Movement Activity Create A Rainforest Rainforest Sensory Walk
Animal Clinic Investigation
Grades K-5; Standards: NGSS and Common Core
Calling all vets-in-training: Dr. Fonz needs your critical thinking skills! Students will analyze evidence and put together clues to diagnose and treat a Zoo animal.
Bridging the Americas
Open to Grades 2-4 in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C.
This environmental education program connects students from North America and Latin America through the shared observation and enjoyment of local birds. Use password bta4teachers to access resources.
Follow That Bird
Grades 6-8; Standards: NGSS
A science and technology unit that teaches core concepts through exploration of bird tracking tools and data.
eMammal
Grades 6-12; Some activities appropriate for younger audiences
Lesson plans, games and activities that utilize camera trap images of wildlife from across the globe.