Little Nature Explorer

My son Ryker started attending Little nature, explorer classes starting at the age of two years old. I was looking for a place where Ryker could feel accepted and connected, as he was recently diagnosed with Autism. Ryker loves animals, so I thought the zoo would be the perfect place. The Brandywine zoo is welcoming and gives off positive energy. The staff and atmosphere allowed Ryker a safe space to grow and to be himself. Ryker initially started class by doing his own thing, paying attention on the outskirts, but loving more of the movement atmosphere. The staff was always accommodating and encouraging. Ryker was nonverbal at the time, but that never deterred any of the zoo staff to engage with him and to form connections. As a parent, also new to supporting Ryker in ways that he needed, I felt very comfortable being at the zoo, in class, and talking with the staff about any of Ryker‘s needs. The staff genuinely cared and also started to use sign language and certain cues to assist Ryker in knowing about transitions. As time passed, and we continued to attend class, Ryker’s engagement increased. He was curious about the other kids, curious about the animals, and loved reading the stories. He would often like to explore the zoo which he was able to do following class. On the other hand, not all classes went smooth or were pretty. The staff was more than helpful with continuing to encourage Ryker while I also brought items that were motivating and rewarding for him. This seemed to help as behaviors decreased, and his engagement with others started to thrive. Ryker started making eye contact and waving to other kids and staff. Ryker was able to say his name when introducing himself. He was able to use his communication device to share his favorite animal. Ryker was walking up to the zoo proudly, getting his name tag, and guiding me to the area to where class was held. Ryker has been consistent with Little Nature explorers until the age of five, rain or shine this was a part of our week. This continued to expand to attending the zoo outside of class, attending zoo events, and sharing his experience with class to others. little nature explorers also expanded into his school which only added to his excitement since he was familiar with the program. He was so excited to share his zoo class moments with me at pick up time. Ryker attended his first camp at the Brandywine zoo this past summer, and it was amazing! The staff continues to be so communicative and encouraging. Most know Ryker by name and go out of their way to share a positive interaction with him. Ryker loved every minute of camp! I also had no worries or concerns dropping him off each morning. Ryker is now talking, something I was told that he would never do. I truly believe that the Brandywine zoo, the Little nature Explorer class, and the zoo staff played a major role in his progress. The way that they invited him in, without judgment, showed him love, compassion and encouragement, is something that I will always be grateful for. This is something that was not an expectation of their position but something that comes natural to the entire team and it is clear as soon as one walks into the gates.

– Lauren Rhoades