PRESCHOOL | PRESCHOOL CURRICULUM

Last week, our preschool students had an unforgettable experience with some very special visitors—a traveling petting zoo! The children had the opportunity to meet and interact with 20 friendly animals, including a llama, a turtle, a sheep, goats, bunnies, and more. Watching their faces light up as they petted these gentle creatures was a true highlight of the week.

The Joy and Benefits of Petting Zoos for Preschool Children

Hands-On Learning and Emotional Growth

Petting zoos provide young children with a hands-on way to connect with nature and learn about animals in a safe and nurturing environment. For our preschoolers, this experience fostered curiosity, encouraged empathy, and helped develop a sense of responsibility. Touching the soft fur of a bunny or the coarse wool of a sheep sparked conversations about textures, habitats, and how to care for living beings. These moments not only bring joy but also nurture important social-emotional skills.

Sensory Exploration and Motor Skills

Interacting with animals engages children’s senses and supports their fine and gross motor skill development. From gently petting a turtle’s shell to feeding goats with an open hand, the children practiced coordination and patience. For many, this was their first time meeting animals up close, making the experience both exciting and enriching.

Encouraging a Love for Nature

By bringing a variety of animals to the school, the petting zoo allowed students to learn about wildlife without leaving the comfort of their campus. These early interactions with animals help foster a lifelong appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship.

We are so grateful to have provided this unique and educational experience to our Maternelle students. Their giggles, smiles, and curious questions reminded us of the incredible value of bringing these types of activities into our curriculum. A big thank-you to our furry and feathered friends for visiting—until next time!