How Do You Zoo?- A self guided zoo tour

Pack for fun and learning with a well stocked backpack 
for your little (or not so little) one

Zoos and aquariums are in the process of making revolutionary changes to their education and interpretation approaches.  I recently visited the aquarium where I interned.  In a little under 2 years, they went from very standard signs giving common and scientific names for each of the species in their reef tank to a technologically driven interpretation method, complete with a robotic camera that allowed visitors to see almost 360 degrees around the tank, from inside the tank!  These facilities are adapting quickly to keep up with changing technology, and zoo visitors are definitely reaping the benefits.

Make the most of your visit, utilizing all the great information these places have for you.  Help your child pack a special Safari Backpack, with plenty of materials to enhance the wonderful experience that awaits you!

BE PREPARED

Your child will feel in control of your visit if they can carry this all by themselves (you may need to make rules or set a weight limit so that you don't end up with the brunt of the carrying duty).

·         Backpack – one with lots of pockets and carabiners gives you a fun place to store the cool stuff you bring with and the souvenirs you bring back

·         Water Bottle – stay hydrated!  Make your carrying easier with straps or rings for attaching to the backpack

·         First Aid Kit – a few band-aids and antiseptic wipes

·         Hand Sanitizer – for petting zoo excursions

·         Map/Compass – maps can be confusing, but most have a legend.  Orient yourself with a compass.  Not only will it help you navigate, but it is a great lesson in orienteering

BE A SCIENTIST

Zoos and aquariums are a great place for seeing the science of animal behavior.  Create your own inquiry project.  Use simple implements like a measuring tape and string as visual representations of the numbers you find along the way.

·         Pocket notebook/pen – for marking down observations

·         Clipboard – tie on a pen or pencil for quick use.  Use with activity sheets

·         Binoculars – find camouflaged animals from far away

·         Magnifying glass – take a closer look

·         Stopwatch/watch – for inquiry projects

·         Measuring tape – just how long is a giraffe’s tongue? Or the tusk of an elephant?  See for yourself with the help of a measuring tape.  Small measuring tapes (to 60") are great for these types of questions.  However, if you happen to have one that reaches 16' or more, it can be used to measure the distance you could leap in one jump if you were a grasshopper.  Use with a stopwatch to see how fast you are, compared to a cheetah.

·         Ball of twine/hemp – use with your measuring tape to get the full effect of the length of an anaconda.  How many times could it wrap around you?

·         Calculator

·         Field guides

·         Inquiry sheets* – explore the science of animal behavior with a scientific inquiry based study that you design

BE AN ARTIST

Everyone needs a break now and then.  Pack crafting materials to sit back and draw an animal or two with real life subjects.  Add these to your Animal A-Z Binder to watch their artistic talents grow over time.

·         Paper (lined and plain)

·         Crayons/Markers/Colored Pencils

MAKE A RECORD

Your visit may last only a day, but the knowledge can last a lifetime.  Keep a record to use as your own personal animal encyclopedia.

·         Interpretive sheets* – show the world what you learned at the zoo today

·         3-ring binder w/dividers – create your own Animal A-Z.  Organize your knowledge by class (mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians, fish, and invertebrates), habitat, or region

·         Camera – don’t forget to take lots of pictures!  If you have (an extra) one that can survive being operated by a child, be sure to bring it along- some of the best pictures I have were taken from a child's perspective.  Toss on a neck strap, add a carabiner for extra security, and you're set!  Watch for neat photo opportunities, and take pictures on consecutive visits to see your child grow


Don't forget! Information is on more than just signs.  Keep an eye out for other sources, like audio tours or phone numbers, videos, and zookeeper or naturalist chats, shows, and demonstrations.  Employees usually know when animals tend to be active, and can point you in the right direction for a fun experience.  Don't hesitate to use smart phones or tablets to enhance the experience as well- make use of the knowledge at your fingertips.

Parents, educators, fellow zoo enthusiasts: Is there anything I forgot?  Share your thoughts in the comments below!