Sharing the value of compassion is an important part of our mission. AWS’ Youth Programs, led by state-certified educator, Amanda Zimmerman, provide interactive and creative learning opportunities for children of all ages. Our unique and engaging approach targets three important educational components: literacy, social-emotional learning and animal advocacy.

Our fun humane education programs incorporate the animals in our care to help children grow emotionally, socially, culturally and academically. Creative lessons benefit animals and students, inside and outside the classroom. Whether we’re working together to improve literacy skills by reading aloud to a resident pet or learning about animal body language and how it can mirror our own feelings, students participating in AWS’ Youth Programs are more engaged, more compassionate, and more knowledgeable about animals and the world we share.

Most programs take place in AWS' Youth Classroom, located at the Boston House on AWS' campus. For more information on our youth programs, contact Youth Programs Coordinator Amanda Zimmerman at (207) 985-3244 ext 109.

Visit one of the categories below or visit our calendar for a complete listing of upcoming youth programs.

AWS Youth Programs follow the RSU21 (Kennebunk) school calendar. If there is a snow day or if the district shifts to remote learning, AWS programs will not take place in-person.