Teens and Pre-teens

The Field Museum aims to inspire Chicagoland area teens and pre-teens to explore and protect the natural world. Our youth programs connect them to natural history and world cultures while helping them prepare for college and careers in STEM.

If you’re between 11 and 18 years old, this could be a life-changing opportunity to meet the scientists investigating wildlife in the Amazon. Uncover the specimens lurking in our collections. Set out and see the city’s diverse habitats. Find community with other science lovers in middle and high school. Together, you can follow your curiosity to internships, career panels, volunteering, and more.

Events and programs

Monarch Community Science Project

Get outside this summer and appreciate nature—all while contributing to science!

Learn more

Teen Open House

Stop by the Digital Learning Studio and explore science through games, scavenger hunts, and more in this event just for teens.

I am extremely lucky that I get to share my passion for science with the entire world. I had tons of great interactions with visitors this summer! I forged a lot of new friendships. I thought it was really cool that we could share pieces of our lives with one another. I felt the love and fun radiating among all the teens this summer.

Teen Volunteer, 2018–2019

Supporting all youth

We welcome all teens and pre-teens in grades 6–12 to our youth programs. To increase access to these events and opportunities, we provide a number of resources to participants, including stipends, public transportation vouchers, and free museum admission. You can even earn volunteer hours, building your skills with leadership, public speaking, coding, and design. Be sure to check in with each program to see what’s provided.

Involvement Opportunities

Take a closer look

Dig deeper into the world around you. Our scientists have created resources to help young scientists like you learn more about Chicago’s own rich wildlife.

See Field Guides
Document nature on your phone with iNaturalist