Off-Site Programs

Winter the dolphin is CMA’s most popular resident. Her amazing story of survival has inspired millions around the world. Discover the behind-the-scenes story of Winter’s rescue, get up-close and personal with Winter’s tail, and learn how her ongoing progress is benefitting people and animals across the globe.

Have a class full of future marine mammal trainers? Flipping for Dolphins focuses solely on the work done by CMA with our three resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The program will discuss learned and natural behaviors and how psychology plays a role in animal care as we discuss the biography of each of CMA’s resident dolphins. Students will learn about training methods, operant conditioning, and positive reinforcement as they apply real training methodology in an interactive activity by “training” one another to do fun behaviors.

Students discover the positive and negative impact humans can have on the oceans and coastal environments through the stories of our resident animal ambassadors. We will discuss ocean hazards and play “Scan your Can” – a recycling game that focuses on how sorting garbage can help save the planet. By the end of the program, each class member will be dubbed a “Dolphin Deputy.”

What does it take to care for an orphaned dolphin or otter pup? This program focuses on the younger rescued animals at CMA and the extra special care needed for these animal babies. Participants will learn how scientists work together to create solutions to complex problems. Students will apply what they have learned by learning how to make dolphin formula and will view footage of our otter pups. Discover natural versus learned behaviors as the program focuses on how marine mammals care for their young in the wild and how reproductive strategies differ among species.

This program focuses on invertebrates. Learn all about the Gulf of Mexico’s smaller inhabitants that call CMA home through this hands-on look at sea stars, crabs, and sea urchins. The program will focus on describing these animals using our five senses, comparing and contrasting locomotion modalities, and discussing survival adaptations. Participants can apply what they have learned by touching some of these creatures to see how these spineless animals have adapted to live on our ocean floor.

CMA works to protect sea turtle nests up and down Pinellas County’s coastlines. Learn all about the loggerhead sea turtle life cycle. Examine the anatomy of the sea turtle, including hands-on time with real turtle shells and skulls. (Participants will have an interactive experience as we simulate the conservation efforts of our sea turtle staff.)

Looking for a fun way to motivate your team? Let our education staff lead your team-building adventure. Teams identify their “sea creature,” participate in a group challenge designed to help improve teamwork and communication, and take part in a mini-scavenger hunt at the Aquarium.

Please call 727-441-1790 Ext. 252 to book your Educator Program.