Here’s what you need to do to make your next family trip to the Zoo exciting and stress-free.
A trip to the Zoo with your family is the perfect way to get out of the home. You can see your child’s eyes light up when they get to see their favourite animals up close. As a parent, your trip to the Zoo is supposed to be a happy one that is full of memories. However, if you do not plan your day, it could quickly turn into a disaster. This list will help you make your next zoo trip seamless and hopefully meltdown-free.
1. Plan your visit to the Zoo.
Visit the Zoo’s website to find out about opening and closing times, parking, and daily activities such as animal feeding, zookeeper lectures, and other special events. You can choose which exhibits to see and skip by checking out the website ahead of time. You can buy tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line. Print zoo maps and create an agenda so that you are prepared when you arrive. Take note of the restrooms, picnic area, petting Zoo, and playground to help you navigate.
2. Prepare yourself.
Here is a list of things to bring with you for a day at the Zoo:
- Accessories for summer, including UV-protective sunglasses as well as a summer cap
- Sunscreen and bug-repellent
- Stroller Cup Holder Keep little ones hydrated
- Cooler with lots and lots of cold water
- Baby bottles or sippy cups for kids
- Any of the in Skip hop(r) will do — or even a stroller snack tray
- Lots of diapers, wipes, and pacifiers
- In case of an accident, each child should have a change of clothes and a bag for wet/dry clothing.
- Keep the essentials in your stroller with this organizer.
3. Dress your children appropriately.
Be prepared for the heat of summer with appropriate clothing and supplies. For any trip to the Zoo, you must have everyday basics such as toddler necessities and comfortable footwear. Little Planet(r) ‘s safari-print styles will help you dress your child for a trip to the Zoo.
4. Consider your child’s needs.
Call ahead or visit the website of your local Zoo to learn about special services for guests with disabilities and to check their policies on service animals.
5. Pack a picnic.
Food at the Zoo is expensive, especially when you have a large family. Pack a picnic to save time instead of standing in line at a restaurant for an expensive meal. Fresh fruit, sandwiches with sliced vegetables, pretzels or crackers, and raisins are some of the most popular zoo-picnic ideas. Avoid packing anything that can melt. Pack your lunch and snacks in a small cooler or individual Lunch Boxes.
6. Play it.
Zoo activities are both fun and educational. Make a game of it to help children of preschool age and older learn more about animals. To keep older children engaged, print out information sheets on different animals, a game, or a zoo-scavenger hunt. Playing a game or doing an activity while at the Zoo keeps things fun and interesting for everyone.
7. When your child is done, you will know.
You may not have time to see every exhibit on a single visit to the Zoo. Each child has a limit to their level of stimulation, excitement, and physical activity. While you’re visiting the Zoo, plan for some downtime and choose a cool and shady place to relax. Or, visit the zoo play area to let your child burn off extra energy. Be aware of your child’s limit and know when to stop.
Preparation can make your family’s visit to the Zoo memorable. Take lots of photos so that you can enjoy these memories in the future.
