The CT Cradle to Career Coalition Presents: Sparkler Summer Series – Beardsley Zoo Edition

Saturday, August 29, 2026 | 4:00 – 7:00 PM | Connecticut Beardsley Zoo

FREE EVENT | Ages 0-5 | Sparkler Enrollment Required

Trade the summer heat for shady trails, curious critters, and quality family time. On Saturday, August 29, the CT Cradle to Career Coalition is bringing families from Bridgeport, Stamford, Norwalk, Waterbury, and Danbury together at the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo for the Sparkler Summer Series, an afternoon built around one simple idea: learning is more fun when the whole family does it together.

What’s Waiting for You at the Zoo

Between animal encounters, little ones and their grown-ups can look forward to a carousel ride (on us), hands-on activities designed for the 0-5 crowd, and a chance to swap stories with other families walking the same path. And because a day out is even better on a full stomach, free food and treats will be waiting for everyone.

Why We’re Doing This Through Sparkler

This event is part of a bigger idea. To join us at the zoo, families first enroll in Sparkler, a free app that turns everyday moments into opportunities for growth, offering personalized activities, milestone tracking, and guidance rooted in child development research. While you’re there, we’ll also encourage families to complete the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), a quick, no-pressure screening that celebrates what your child is already doing well and flags where a little extra support might help.
Enroll and complete the ASQ, and your family unlocks:

• Developmental milestone tracking
• Personalized learning activities
• Evidence based parenting tips
• Connections to local resources and supports
• A ticket to this Zoo celebration, free food included

Presented By Your Community Coalition

This event is made possible through the CT Cradle to Career Coalition, a partnership of Bridgeport Prospers, Bridge to Success Community Partnership, Norwalk ACTS, Danbury Collective, and Stamford Cradle to Career.

Space fills up fast, so don’t wait. Head to playsparkler.org to download the app, and use the Sparkler access code listed beneath your town’s logo when you register.

We’ll see you and the little ones at the Zoo!

Register now to reserve your family’s spot: Click here to register

Event flyers are available in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Please share with families in your network.