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We're Going to the Zoo
Celebrate National Zoo and Aquarium Month with Your Toddler
By Melinda Copp
On the Wild Side?
"Visiting the zoo is a great way to build family relationships," says Allen Nyhuis, co-author of America's Best Zoos: A Travel Guide for Fans and Families (The Intrepid Traveler, 2008). "Some of my favorite memories with my kids are from trips to the zoo."
To ensure your family has a fun-filled day at the zoo or aquarium that's not too "wild," Nyhuis offers the following tips:
- Research the zoo or aquarium ahead of time for special events, seasonal exhibits and unique animals. This is especially important if you're traveling or you've never been to the zoo before.
- Check the stroller policy. Many aquariums only allow strollers during certain hours to avoid congestion around the exhibits. If your little ones require a stroller, make sure you call ahead for information and restrictions.
- Consider what your kids will like the best, and put those exhibits on the top of your list. For example, little girls may not be as excited about the reptile exhibit as they are about the butterfly garden.
- Plan ahead for how much energy your kids will have and prioritize the exhibits you want to see the most. Not all kids will be up for a day-long hike through hundreds of exhibits – this is especially important if you're going to one of the bigger facilities, like San Diego or Brookfield in Chicago.
A trip to the zoo is something that everyone in the family can enjoy, and getting kids started early with the zoo experience will help foster a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. So make sure you add a trip to the zoo or aquarium to your family's list of summer activities.
