One of the arguments parents frequently use to justify bringing their children to zoos and aquariums is their belief that these facilities provide a way to teach children about wild animals. I can’t deny that that basic desire – to teach children about wildlife – is legitimate and laudable. (Though, as my colleague, Angela, pointed out, zoos are often more about entertainment and a day out than about education.) But, there is something even more important than teaching kids about the biology and behaviors of wild animals: teaching children to have compassion for individual animals and for species as a whole. This starts by recognizing that wild animals deserve to be wild.
Here are five ideas to not only educate kids about animals, but to also teach them to respect the right of wild animals to be born – and to live – free:
1. Visit What Elephants Like.
Born Free USA launched What Elephants Like to offer a fun way teach kids about elephants and why keeping elephants captive in zoos and circuses is unkind. The website features a video and a coloring book, and you can also purchase a copy of the What Elephants Like book – filled with whimsical illustrations – to add to your child’s library.
2. Learn about Lucky the Lorikeet.
Lucky the Lorikeet is another educational book, which gently awakens children to the plight of captive birds and birds captured in the wild, through the eyes of a child. Based on a true story, Lucky the Lorikeet tells the tale of a lorikeet who is captured in the wild and eventually regains his freedom with the help of a young Indonesian boy. Also visit the Lucky website for fun and educational lesson plans and activities.
3. Find a nature trail in your local area and go for a hike.
Looking for a fun way to observe wildlife and also get some exercise? Find a nature trail near your home and take a hike! You never know what kind of animals you may see when you’re out walking, and seeing them at home in their natural habitats is a great way to teach children about the importance of letting wild animals be wild.
4. Build a backyard oasis for wild birds.
Turning your yard into an inviting space for local birds allows you and your kids to observe these creatures in the wild, on their terms. To get started, you can purchase a humming bird feeder or a bird feeder from the Born Free USA store!
5. Go whale watching.
If you live on the coast (or are planning a vacation to the beach), consider bringing your children whale watching. Observing whales in their natural habitats, performing natural behaviors, will not only help kids learn about whales, but can also prompt a larger discussion about the inherent cruelty of forcing whales to perform tricks, as they are often made to do in aquariums.
Keep wildlife in the wild,
Karen
