Taking your family to the zoo is a perfect family activity to get you out of the house. It’s so fun watching your little one’s eye light up as they see all of the animals they love up close and in person. While your visit to the zoo should leave you content and full of new memories as a parent, it can quickly go south if you don’t put a little bit of time into planning your day at the zoo. Follow this list of tips for making your next trip to the zoo seamless and — hopefully — melt-down free.
1. Plan a visit to the zoo ahead of time.
Check out the zoo website for opening and closing hours, parking information and a schedule of daily activities, such as animal feeding times, zookeeper talks and other special events. Checking out the website in advance allows you to pick and choose which exhibits you want to be sure to visit and which ones to skip. If it’s an option, buy tickets in advance so you won’t have to start off your zoo trip by waiting in a ticket line. Create an agenda and print zoo maps so you’re all set when you arrive. Make note of restrooms, picnic areas, the petting zoo and playground so you’ll be better able to find your way around.
2. Be prepared.
Here’s a quick checklist of what to pack for the day at the zoo:
Summer accessories, such as UV-protection sunglasses and a summer hat
Sunscreen and bug spray
Stroller cup holder to keep little ones hydrated
Cooler with lots of cold water
Baby bottles, sippy cups and/or kids water bottles
Plenty of diapers, wipes and pacifiers
Change of clothes for each child and a wet/dry bag in case of an accident
Stroller organizer to keep the essentials handy
3. Dress your kids appropriately.
During the summer, temperatures can be sweltering, and children tend to get hot quickly, so be prepared with the right clothing and supplies (depending on the climate). Everyday basics like these toddler essentials and comfortable shoes are a must for any trip to the zoo. Dress your little one on-theme for your trip to the zoo with Little Planet’s® safari print styles.
4. Consider your child’s needs.
If you have a child with special needs, call ahead or check out the zoo website to find out about any special services they may offer for guests with disabilities as well as zoo policies regarding service animals.
5. Pack a picnic.
Most zoos have on-site cafes and food stands around the park, but buying food at the zoo can get pricey, especially if you are visiting with your whole family. Instead of spending your time standing in line for an expensive lunch, pack a picnic instead. Some favorite zoo picnic ideas include fresh fruit, sandwiches, sliced veggies, crackers or pretzels and raisins. Be sure to avoid packing anything that will melt. Pack lunch and snacks into a small cooler or in individual lunch boxes.
6. Make a game of it.
Zoo activities can be fun and educational. Children preschool-age and older may learn more about the different animals they’re seeing if you make a game out of it. Print out information sheets about various animals, a zoo scavenger hunt or a list of questions to answer about the different animals to help keep older kids engaged. Doing an activity or playing a game while you’re at the zoo will keep things interesting and fun for everyone.
7. Know when your child has had enough.
It may not be realistic to visit every exhibit in a single trip to the zoo. Every child has his or her own limit for stimulation, excitement and physical activity. Plan for some downtime while you’re at the zoo and find a cool, shady spot to rest, or hit up the zoo playground and allow your child a chance to blow off any extra steam. Know your child’s limits and be ready to call it a day when you’re approaching that limit.
A little preparation can help make your visit to the zoo a memorable one for every member of the family. Be sure to take plenty of pictures so you can look back on these memories for years to come!
