First Encounters
A beginner animal experience for children 36 months and younger.
Age: 0-3
Non-member ticket: $30 (Includes one adult and one child)
Member ticket: $25 (Includes one adult and one child)
Additional Child: $10 each
*One additional adult may attend free of charge with pre-approval. Please email Sophia at programs@forestparkzoo.com to request an additonal adult.
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.)
Tuesday, Oct. 10 (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.)
Thursday, Oct. 12 (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.)
Wednesday, Oct. 18 (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.)
Friday, Oct. 20 (10 a.m. - 12 p.m.)
*Please note: the program will take place from 10 to 10:30. You and your guests have access to The Zoo from 10:30 to 12 for a self-guided tour.
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.