Spring is here, which means outdoor time is inevitable. Heading out to petting zoos and fairs will soon become the norm again for parents of young children. These places may seem to be full of sheep, goats, pigs, and other cute farm animals, but they can also be full of E. coli – yuck! If you’re excited about taking your little ones to petting zoos and fairs, you’re not alone. However, it’s crucial to ensure their safety and well-being while they enjoy these experiences. Here’s a guide for parents to navigate petting zoos and fairs safely with their children while having a blast!
PRACTICE HAND HYGIENE
Animals, while adorable, can carry germs that may cause illness. Therefore, it’s vital to instill the habit of thorough handwashing in your kids. Encourage them to wash their hands with soap and water after touching any animals. This simple practice significantly reduces the risk of infections, such as E. coli and other illnesses, associated with animal contact.
DON’T TOUCH YOUR FACE!
Kids have a natural tendency to touch their faces, especially when excited or curious. However, it’s essential to discourage face touching, particularly after interacting with animals. Remind your children that touching their mouth, nose, or eyes can introduce germs into their bodies, potentially leading to illness.
MAINTAIN DISTANCE FROM ANIMAL AREAS DURING MEALS
Petting zoos or fairs may have food and drink areas in close proximity to animal enclosures. To minimize the risk of contamination, advise your children to avoid eating or drinking near these areas. Instead, designate specific locations away from the animals for meals and snacks.
WASH YOUR HANDS – AGAIN
Before indulging in fair treats, ensure that your children wash their hands thoroughly. Even if they haven’t directly interacted with animals, it’s essential to eliminate any potential germs picked up from surfaces in the petting zoo or fairgrounds.
ENCOURAGE GENTLE INTERACTION WITH ANIMALS
All animals deserve kindness and respect – this is an important lesson to teach your kids. Emphasize the importance of gentle interactions and discourage any behavior that may stress or agitate the animals. By fostering empathy and consideration towards animals, you not only promote safety but also help kids learn a life lesson.
STICK TO THE RULES
When visiting petting zoos or fairs, adhere to all guidelines and rules provided by organizers. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of visitors and the well-being of the animals. Encourage your children to listen to adults and follow instructions to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
PRIORITIZE HYDRATION & SUNSCREEN
Apply and reapply! Make sure that your children drink plenty of water throughout the day and apply sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. Kids could also wear hats, long sleeve t-shirts, or stay covered up in general.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to create lasting, memorable, and safe experiences for your kiddos. See you at the zoo!