Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration

(Best Suited for Kindergarten)
What kind of surprises might children encounter in the magical aquarium suitcase? Clownfish, eels, anemones, flounder and sharks, to name just a few. Learning comes alive as students discover the numerous adaptations that equip these animals for life in the ocean, while they act as pieces of a great ocean survival game.
Suggested book to complement the program: "Rainbow Fish & Friends Hide and Seek" by Marcus Pfister
CT State Science Standard Addressed: K.2

Hermit crabs are fascinating creatures.  Because they live in a shell, they are never far from home. But sometimes moving to a new bigger shell can be an adventure! Using the story A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle, props and a costume, students discover how hermit crabs camouflage themselves while decorating a shell with sea anemones, sea stars, lantern fish and more! 
Suggested book to complement the program: “A House for Hermit Crab” by Eric Carle
CT State Science Standard Addressed:  K.2

Best Suited for Pre-K
Why are some sea animals vibrantly colored while others can barely be seen in their ocean home? Camouflage and traveling in groups are essential to many marine animals.  Through a variety of educational activities and games, your students will discover the importance of color for identification and survival in the ocean.
Suggested book to complement the program:  “Secret Seahorse” by Stella Blackstone and Clare Beaton 
CT State Science Standard Addressed:  K.2

Ocean creatures have countless ways of moving from one place to another. Some float, some use flippers, others walk sideways! Join us to find out if Rocky the crab or Cody the octopus can teach a confused baby beluga how to swim.  This program, which includes a puppet show, is designed to help students discover how marine animals move.
Suggested book to complement the program: “Baby Beluga” by Raffi 
CT State Science Standard Addressed:  K.2

All children love to imitate penguins, so think how much fun it would be to see a classmate dressed up as one from beak to tail!  Through movement and hands-on activities, students will love learning about these adorable “birds that can’t fly.”
Please note: Live penguins are not included as a part of this class.
Suggested books to complement the program: “Penguin Pete” by Marcus Pfister, and “Baby Penguin” by Aubrey Lang
CT State Science Standard Addressed:  K.2