5 Ways to Improve a Trip to the Zoo

Going
to zoos can be a great day trip for you and your family. Most kids
really enjoy looking at all the animals and you get a chance to spend
the day with the family. I am still currently on vacation in the San
Francisco Bay Area and in the last couple of weeks, I have gone with my
family to 3 zoos, and an aquarium.

In order to maximize your zoo experience, I have compiled a short list
of considerations. Knowing these could turn a so-so experience at the
zoo into a memorable experience.

1. LINE OF SIGHT
Remember your kid has a different view of things than you do. Whether
they are sitting in a stroller or walking around on their own, they may
be too short to see the animals or displays. You may need to carry them
in certain areas to give them a better view.

2. SHHH!
Zoos typically do a good job alerting visitors when it is important to
be quiet around certain animals. It is important to set a good example
to your kids and to explain to them why they should be quiet.

3. SPECIES & GENERALIZATION
A monkey is a monkey right? Sometimes. It may be easy to just tell your
kid that the animal you are looking at are monkeys. But don't lose the
opportunity to teach them different names and types of monkeys. You
will be surprised how perceptive kids are at the differences in
opinions. You may also be surprised when your kid tells you that you
are looking at a Chimpanzee not a monkey.

4. SCARY ANIMALS
I get freaked out by reptiles. I don't like them. But it is important
to not impose your baggage towards certain animals onto your kids.
Don't take them up to a snake and say, "Ooh scary!" If they don't like
them, let them come up with their own conclusions.

5. WASH HANDS
Some zoos have areas where kids can pet animals. Teach your kids to
wash their hands after touching animals. I feel strongly that anywhere
in the zoo, you should encourage your kids to wash their hands. All it
takes is one snot-nosed kid who did some heavy petting of a goat to not
wash his hands and spread disease all over the place.

Good luck noodads.