First Encounters gives young children an opportunity to meet various animal ambassadors, including reptiles, small mammals, or birds, with their adult caregiver. Each half-hour class includes a story book reading relating to animals at The Zoo and a take-home craft that correlates to the lesson, followed by the opportunity for an hour-and-a-half self-guided tour through The Zoo. This is a great way to introduce your child to wildlife and begin to foster an appreciation for the natural world.
Session Dates:
Monday, Sept. 18 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
Thursday, Sept. 21 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
Tuesday, Sept. 26 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
Friday, Sept. 29 (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
Important information:
– All children in attendance must have an adult (age 18+) accompany them. The Zoo has a required ratio of 1 adult for every 2 children present at the program.
– These programs require pre-registration.
– We will be outside for the duration of the program – please make sure all participants are prepared for the weather.
– In the case of inclement weather, every effort will be made to move the program indoors or reschedule the program; session dates may be switched only if there is room to accommodate additional guests on the requested date. No refunds will be given if dates must be switched due to inclement weather.
Tickets can be purchased at The Zoo gate upon arrival. Reminder that the City of Springfield charges $3/in-state plate and $5/out-of-state plate, cash only, to park. Parking is not included in the price of admission to The Zoo.
