Teaching Children about Wildlife: Six Alternative Resources to Zoos

Many of us have great childhood memories of visiting the zoo, which served as our initial experience with wildlife and the subject of conservation. While these instances are often remembered with fondness, it’s important to recognize the significant downsides of zoos. Primarily, zoos are businesses that use animals as a form of entertainment, and as such, house animals in unnatural, artificial ways. This can influence children’s understanding of the true nature of animals for years to come. Here, we explore six alternatives to educating children about animals in more natural or humane and kind environments.

Underwater Explorations

Exploring the underwater world is a great opportunity for children to learn about marine life. They will have an educational experience that fosters appreciation for the ocean as well as a memorable adventure. Below we look at three examples of aquatic activities.

• Snorkeling: Snorkeling is not only an exhilarating activity, but it also may provide an invaluable education on marine conservation. Children may learn about learn about the importance of coral reefs and endangered aquatic animals as well as becoming more aware of the beauty and vastness of the seas.
• Underwater Photography: Capturing memories while exploring the ocean using kid-friendly and waterproof cameras can be a great way for children to create visual keepsakes, providing an everlasting impression and appreciation of aquatic environments.
• Whale & Dolphin Watching: Whale and dolphin watching is an unforgettable excursion where families learn about these magnificent ocean creatures. Though this doesn’t require a scuba suit or fun underwater gear, seeing animals in their natural habitat frolicking amongst the sea’s waves will be a long-lived memory.

Farm Sanctuaries

Farm sanctuaries, also known as farmed animal sanctuaries, allow children to get a hands-on experience with animals and learn about the negative effects of animal agriculture. They provide a safe space for animals and offer insight into how the animal industry affects the environment. Their mission is to rescue and rehabilitate and often house for life animals such as pigs, cows, chickens, and goats, to name a few. Visitors may encounter pigs rescued from slaughterhouses, or cows from the dairy industry, as examples. Imagine how enthralling it would be to lovingly hug a friendly cow or rub a pig’s belly!

Birdwatching and Birding Centers

Birding centers are spaces where birds can exist safely in their native habitats. These centers protect vulnerable bird species and allow them to thrive in their natural locales. Many birding centers offer programs and volunteer opportunities that enable children to learn about local birds. They are usually built around the environment’s natural terrain, creating a space that connects humans and birds in a humane way, fostering conservation, advocacy, and learning. Below are two bird-centered activities we love.

• Birdwatching: Birdwatching is a wonderful activity that creates stewardship in young minds and allows children to spend time in nature. Even if a parent isn’t a bird aficionado themselves, learning about different species of birds can help them become appreciative of the birds native to their region.
• Creating a Bird-Friendly Yard: Birdwatching doesn’t have to be done in an exotic location. Making your yard bird-friendly can provide children with enticing ways to experience their local birds. Adding bird feeders and baths are fun and useful additions which attract and support the birds.

Volunteer Tourism

Volunteer tourism, when done properly, is a chance for children to learn about wildlife and be of service. One caveat to remember is to make sure your tours are truly beneficial to the animals and their environment! Below are two ways children can experience the benefits of volunteering.

• Visit Wildlife Rehab Centers: Animal rehabilitation centers provide safe havens for wild animals rescued from neglect, abuse, and danger, giving them the opportunity to be rehabilitated and often released back into the wild. They are usually run by veterinarians and a team of wildlife experts, but often depend on volunteers and donations for support. Examples of wildlife rehab centers are turtle conservatories where they work on protecting sea turtles through research, wildlife rescue centers dedicated to helping animals that have been harmed by oil spills, and even emergency centered rehabs.
• Volunteer at National Parks: Finding a national park in your county or state can be a wonderful option for a vacation that also serves as a chance to learn. From local summer programs built around family-friendly fun to far away adventures like those created through organizations such as The Sierra Club, there are many choices to help children learn conservation while enjoying the great outdoors.

Explore Local Natural Areas

Exploring areas in your own neighborhood or city shouldn’t be looked over. From hiking your
town’s outdoor trails to visiting a park this can be a rewarding option for children to become aware of their local wildlife.

• Making Your Home a Wildlife Friendly Environment: Research ways to make your yard safe and sustainable for local wildlife. Go to your library and check out books on your region’s animals to have a better understanding of the native species that might visit your yard. Google ways to provide safe outdoor havens for animals such as providing water and offering food sources that are natural.
• Travel to Observe Animals in their Natural Habitat: Visiting a park to observe animals in their natural habitat is a fun and easy approach to learn about native birds, butterflies, etc. in your city. Take a hiking trail and see what types of wildlife you see and mark down your findings in a journal you can revisit.

Animal Rescue Shelters and Community Centers

Animal shelters serving mostly dogs and cats typically depend on volunteers and donations to operate. Many rescues have foster programs to extend their reach in the community. Do a little research to see what local shelters would be a good fit for your family members to visit and volunteer at! There are many possible ways to help from walking dogs to socializing cats. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for children to learn about pet care and see how the world of animal rescue functions.

Community centers often offer programs for children to learn about the environment and wildlife. They provide a range of educational opportunities that promote animal welfare, often featuring wildlife experts who teach about the local ecosystem. These programs usually run through local and state parks/organizations.

A Better Approach

While it remains conventional thinking that zoos provide the best opportunity to see and learn about animals, we advocate the exploration of these more humane and naturalistic opportunities to be around animals and learn how they really live! These alternatives can foster a better sense of animal welfare in young minds, benefiting both the child and animals for years to come.

Sources:

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/13-ways-build-your-humane-backyard

https://www.audubon.org/get-outside/activities/audubon-for-kids

https://online.kidsdiscover.com/unit/oceans/topic/exploring-the-oceans

https://sentientmedia.org/farm-sanctuaries/