There is so much to explore at the zoo. Take your time; your child will enjoy his trip much more if you allow him to linger where he wishes. Many zoos now have interactive features for young children. Seek out the exhibits that offer hands-on learning opportunities.

Zoo Lotto

Enhance your child's interest and observational skills with this fun game.

• Use the ruler to mark off six equal squares on the poster board.

• Review the magazine pictures with your child. Let him select six pictures of animals that he thinks he will find at the zoo.

• Help him glue one animal picture in each square.

• Cover the board with clear contact paper.

• Bring the board and dry-erase marker to the zoo. Show your child how to mark off each animal that he sees.

• Challenge him to complete the entire card.

Move Like Me, Sound Like Me

Engage your child with this lively movement activity.

• As you view an animal, ask your child to mimic how the animal moves and/or sounds. Good animals to imitate are monkeys, kangaroos, elephants, and the big cats.