Education Resources

Why do cheetahs have spots? Did you notice that a cheetah’s spots look similar to our fingertips? Just like a human fingerprint, a cheetah’s spots and the ring pattern of its tail are unique! It’s how scientists identify them in the wild. Use your finger and some ink pads to create your own cheetah spots!

In 2023, Get a Head Start with the Smithsonian planned a treasure hunt featuring objects from seven Smithsonian museums for you and your Head Start kiddos to discover with Pinky over the summer. Click here to see that original resource.

This special "teacher-version" features "Treasure Tips" inspired by each object in the Smithsonian Treasure Hunt. Each one-minute video features a different Smithsonian education expert sharing ideas for how you can use Smithsonian objects and teaching strategies to engage your kids at home and in the classroom. You will also find tips on how to apply these ideas using everyday objects and activities. 

The Smithsonian has planned a treasure hunt for you, your Head Start kiddos, and Pinky! Together, make your way through the clues and discover a few amazing objects across seven Smithsonian museums and institutions. Then use the prompts at the end of each clue to find similar treasures in your own home or surroundings. 

What's in a name? So much! Your name is a gift that is special to you but also connects you to your family, others who share your name, and the story of your name through history. Many animals at the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute have names with special stories, including one of our cheetahs who shares a name with Olympic runner Carmelita Jeter.

Did you know that the National Zoo isn't the only location to see live animals at the Smithsonian? With the help of Pinky Jackalope and Tom from the National Museum of Natural History, get to know Lassie, a Brazilian salmon pink bird-eating tarantula, and what she likes to eat!

What does a California sea lion eat at the National Zoo? Find out with Sam, an animal care specialist, and her sea lion friend, Celia. 

Take a rainforest walk through Amazonia at the Zoo and use your senses of sight, smell, and hearing to search for animals and plants on your bingo card.

Do you ever find yourself wondering about something? Join Kaden and Laura as they answer questions around the Zoo in our I Wonder and Me Pregunto video series.

Explore the wide variety of careers involved with conservation at Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute in our Career Connections and Conexión de Carreras video series.