Humane Education

The need for humane education, in a formal sense, has been echoed in schools, religious institutions and literature since eighteenth-century England. Philosopher John Locke was one of the first to make the connection between childhood cruelty to animals and its escalation to cruelty to other people in adulthood. “…I think people should be accustomed, from their cradles, to be tender to all sensible creatures,” he proclaimed. Henry Bergh, George Angell and Caroline Earle White, the founders of American Animal Protection, also promoted humane education and initiated programs for youth across the United States, many of which continue today through their respective organizations.

Benefits of Humane Education:

Cultivates empathy, responsibility and respect for non-human animals, other people and the planet. Children learn that all three are interconnected and vital for a sustainable, humane and fair society.Engenders children with the aspiration and ability to live with values of compassion, integrity and wisdom.Provides the knowledge, tools and resources needed to implement these values in lasting, meaningful ways. Educates in the areas of civility, citizenship and character education.Fosters curiosity, creativity, critical thinking and questioning skills as students are charged with exploring atypical ways of viewing and thinking about the world and their actions.

Bring the Museum's Humane Education Experience into Your Classroom!

Educators with the National Museum of Animals & Society love to visit schools in the Greater Los Angeles Area. Presentations can be tailored to meet the needs of students or teachers’ curriculum. Choose from one of our readymade outreach programs:

ANIMALS & PEOPLE: A Multi-Sensory, Historical Look (Grades 1 – 6)

Take an investigative look at our shared experience. From the cave drawings of Lascaux, France to the many ways animals interact with us on a daily basis in the 21st century, we’ll explore art, literature, music, and other mediums and discuss the importance of sharing our world with non-human animals in compassionate, meaningful ways.

HELPING ANIMALS: A Proud American Legacy (Grades 4 – 8)

Dive into 19th century America with the founding fathers and mothers of Animal Protection. Urbanization, technological advances, women’s suffrage, and abolitionism set the stage for a larger discussion on the need for animal advocacy then and now. This program not only inspires, but develops respect for animals and concern for their welfare.

WORK IT!: Thinking Outside the Box (Grades 1 - 8)

Move over veterinarians and zoo keepers! This presentation gets the creative, imaginative juices flowing when it comes to innovative careers working with or for animals. Budding artists, architects, lawyers, writers, and musicians (and everyone else) are encouraged to apply! Students will also learn what they can do now to help animals and build their résumé.

Schedule a Humane Education Presentation Today!

Capacity: 30 children maximum per presentation

Duration: 30-60 minutes, depending on teacher preference

Schedule: Monday – Friday, during school or after school hours. Saturdays & Sundays are possible depending on Educator availability.

Fee: $100 for (1) presentation; $375 for (4) presentations. Travel fees may apply.

Reservations: For information and reservations, please call 530.520.5397 or e-mail the Museum at info@museumofanimals.org. Please note, some grants opportunities and discounted presentations may be available.

©2010-2012 National Museum of Animals & Society. All Rights Reserved.