ZooKids

About the Program

This is a drop-off program for children ages 5-6 who love animals. This educational adventure includes a zoo tour, craft, and meeting a small animal up close! Classes are held on select Saturdays from 9:30am–12:00pm.

Fees

Oakland Zoo members: $40

Non-members: $45

• Program fees cover program expenses and Zoo admission for the participant only.
• Parents or families who want to enter the Zoo during or after class will need to pay regular Zoo admission or use an Oakland Zoo membership. Advanced reservation is required for non-members.
• Parking fees are waived for people dropping off or picking up ZooKids participants.

Classes

‍Skins and Scales - September 20th and September 27th

Does your tongue help you smell? A snake's does. Did you know that frogs absorb water through their skin? Come explore the fascinating world of reptiles and amphibians and learn how you can help their habitats.

Dens, Domiciles and Dwellings – October 11th and October 18th

Would you like to sleep in the trees? How about a cozy den or a nice warm pond? Come with us to discover where animals live and sleep and how they interact with their environment.

Wild About Primates – November 8th and November 15th

What makes a monkey a monkey or an ape an ape? Primates come in many different shapes and sizes. Did you know that a white handed gibbon sleeps in a tree, with bent knees and face buried between the knees and chest, while a chimp may build a nest in the tree? Join ZooKids as we explore why these animals are so special and how we all can help protect them.

Carnivores, Herbivores, Omnivores, and Me – January 10th and January 24th, 2026

What’s for dinner? What do you like to eat? Some animals eat only meat, some eat only plants, and some eat both. During ZooKids, we will investigate what animals eat and learn how carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores are specially adapted for their unique diets.

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Tongues and Tails – March 14th and March 28th, 2026

Whose tongue is 18 inches long and is prehensile? A Giraffe’s tongue! Did you know ring-tailed lemurs settle arguments by waving their stinky tails? Learn about the fascinating ways animals use their tongues and tails to communicate and survive.

Paws, Claws, and Hooves at California Trail – April 11th, 2026

Which animals at California Trail have claws that can retract? How do you tell the difference between Brown and Black bear tracks? Come join us at California Trail to learn about the animals, paws, claws and hooves, the tracks they leave, and how we can help protect them.

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Bugs, Butterflies, and Bees – May 16th, 2026

Would you like to eat a cricket for Breakfast? Which insect not only provides honey but can flap its wings 200 times per second? Explore the fascinating world of insects; learn about the many different types and the very important role they play in our world.

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For more information or questions please contact us by email here.