Yesterday, our family went to the Bronx Zoo. It just so happened that my office was closed on St Patrick’s Day, making it the perfect time to spend with family. It was a perfect day—not too hot or too cold. After this trip and many others to the Zoo, I decided to compile a guide to help you make the most of your time there.
- Get a Membership: Having a membership at the Zoo is a great thing to do. It is worth it if you are planning to visit the Zoo several times a year. This also eases the pressure of any single visit. You want to get the value of your money from the animals and activities you see. You can enjoy the visit more if you know that you can return as often as you like without paying any additional fees. It gives you peace of mind to know that if your child melts down or it rains, you can return.
- Bring a snack and lunch: Although zoo memberships offer discounts on food, eating at the Zoo can be expensive. By packing a lunch, you can reduce the cost of your visit. You can also take lunch with you to the Zoo. You can satisfy your child’s hunger instantly. This will prevent any meltdowns or shortening of the trip. Also, it is important to bring snacks and water. Both you and your children will be walking a lot, so it is important to have water and snacks available.
- Let the kids lead: You’ve had years to explore the Zoo and see all the animals that you want to see. It’s now your children’s turn. Let your children take the lead and tell you which animals they would like to see. After all, this trip is for them. They will enjoy the chance to take charge and be happier. It’s not a stretch to say that their happiness is also your happiness.!
- Encourage your child to interact with the exhibits. My son, who is just a couple of weeks shy of his third birthday, does not read the signs that are associated with each one. Sleeping animals do not excite him either. Help your child interact with the exhibits. Try to make the same noise as the sea lion. Can he make a bird-like squawk? Can she imitate the gorilla’s face? Can he stretch out his neck as the giraffe does? Can he find the red bird in this picture? What about the green bird? The exhibits, especially for children, are only as exciting and fun as you make it. Have fun. Get a kangaroo roar and start hopping!
- Arrive Early and/or Go on a Day Off: By getting there early, you will avoid many of the hassles associated with popular destinations. At least you can avoid some of the crowds. The morning is when your child will be the most energetic. You can stop your child from asking, “When will we see the animals?” You can avoid long lines at your favourite exhibition. You can also go at random on a weekday. It was perfect that we went yesterday since the schools were in session. It was great because we didn’t need to worry about other children running around. We could give T more space to walk around. He didn’t even have to compete for a place to see the animals.
