Connect to nature and the Museum from anywhere. We are committed to providing free and engaging curriculum and programs for students, teachers, out-of-school-time organizations, and families.
From virtual field trips to lessons to activities, we aim to create a comprehensive virtual learning experience. Be sure to check back regularly to discover new offerings and updates.
Narrated video walk-throughs of our most popular exhibitions, featuring content that aligns with standards and explores the wonders of our natural world. These can be viewed as a whole or in topical segments. Learn more.
Experience our most popular standards-aligned school programs led by a museum educator. This pre-recorded format will enhance your lessons and student objectives. Includes opportunities for hands-on activities with material recommendations. Classes can be navigated for either individual or group work. Learn more.
Ever wonder what it is like to have a career in science or a museum? Check out our growing library of 2- to 3-minute video shorts to learn more about becoming a taxidermist, animal caretaker, and other amazing jobs. Learn more.
Live, topical presentations for students, teachers, and out-of-school-time organizations. Each month we will offer a live, virtual event on a new natural history topic that will feature engaging information and aligning activities. Learn more.
Bring the natural world back to your classroom with teacher kits from the Nature to You Loan Program. Each kit includes lesson plans (aligned with California State and NGSS Standards), books, materials, and museum specimens to engage and inspire your students. A Nature to You membership is required to check out teacher kits. Classrooms in Title I schools may apply for Museum Access Funds to receive courtesy memberships. Learn more.
Looking for educational activities for students? The Nat has lesson plans, online activities, and more resources available for all educators. While many were designed to be used during a museum visit, they contain excellent background information and activity inspiration that is easily accessible for teachers offering lessons remotely. More.
Thank you to the Docent Distance Learning Committee for their expertise, dedication and collaboration in developing distance learning lessons and programs.
Thank you to the many generous donors that support the Museum’s educational programs:
The City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, The J.F. Beyster Fund at The San Diego Foundation, Downtown San Diego Lions Club, General Atomics Sciences Education Foundation, Samuel I. & John Henry Fox Foundation, Genentech Community Fund at The San Francisco Foundation, The Elwyn Heller Foundation of San Diego, James Hervey Johnson Charitable Educational Trust, Hologic Charitable Fund at The San Diego Foundation, The Gilbert J. Martin Foundation, Nordson Corporation Foundation, The Kenneth T. & Eileen L. Norris Foundation, Patrons of the Prado, Arthur P. and Jeanette G. Pratt Memorial Fund, The Conrad Prebys Foundation, Price Philanthropies, ResMed, The Rice Family Foundation, Ellen Browning Scripps Foundation, The Charles H. Stout Foundation, San Diego Gas & Electric, The Thursday Club, and individual donors.