Planning the Zoo Trip
Visit the zoo's website ahead of time to learn what is offered and at what times.
Plan your trip for times when the zoo is less crowded.
If possible, purchase tickets online.
Find out the feeding schedule so you can see the animals in action.
Check to see if there are any animal shows or zookeeper talks.
Visit the zoo's website to print out a map of the zoo.
Figure out what you definitely want to see and do.
On the map, have you child mark what she'd like to see.
Number each area in the order that you plan to visit.
Teach your children that they are visiting the animal's home and need to respect the environment.
Decide whether you will bring snacks and lunch, or will buy them at the zoo.
Pack the night before so the morning isn't crazy.
Watch the weather.
At the Zoo
For older kids, plan a scavenger hunt before you get to the zoo.
Have your little zoo keeper hold onto a map and help keep track of where you are.
Encourage younger children to make animal sounds.
Don't rush.
After the Zoo Trip
Consider 'adopting' a particular animal if your child was really impressed with it.
Consider a zoo camp.
Go to the library in search of animal books or do an Internet search to find out more.

Zoo Trip Checklist

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