Summer Safari

Frequently Asked Questions

• Registration
  Only registrations by mail, fax, or in person will be accepted. No phone registrations. All classes are filled on a first come-first serve basis. A completed application with payment is required to reserve a space. All registrations are processed in the order they are received and membership status is checked.
• How will I know if my child gets into a class?
  Once your child's registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation notice by mail, phone, or email based on your registration form. Classes may be cancelled or combined if registration is below our required minimum.
• Can I register my child in an older or younger age group?
  No, we adhere to grade requirements as our classes are age appropriate.
• What if I want my child in the same class as a friend?
  It will be more likely for your child to be registered in the same class with a friend if both completed forms with payment are turned in together. If non-member forms are mailed with member forms, they will both be processed after the non-member date.
• What if the camp I want is full?
  We can put you on a waiting list, however there is no guarantee that a space will become available.
• How should my child dress?
  Children should dress comfortably, no new or valuable clothing. CLOSED SHOES are required. No slides, flip-flops, sandals, etc. Make sure clothing is weather appropriate, since campers will spend time outdoors too. Campers will receive a t-shirt (included in class fee), and no size exchanges can be made. Please indicate youth or adult size on registration form. T-shirts will be issued on photo day--usually the second day.
• How are campers supervised?
  Campers are supervised at all times by Zoo staff, trained volunteers and certified educators who conduct the classes. Registered teen volunteers may accompany groups of campers when walking in the zoo.
• Can my child attend more than one class?
  Your child can attend multiple classes for his or her age group. Although some activities may be repeated, different lesson plans are developed for each class.
• Will there be a snack break?
  Yes, snacks are prepared for all classes and water and other drinks are made available every day. Campers cannot purchase drinks or snack during classes.
• What if my child has allergies or restrictions?
  PLEASE MAKE US AWARE OF ANY ALLERGIES or restrictions your child may have. Note this on the registration form and make sure the teacher is aware of this on the first day.
• Will my child get to touch animals or go behind the scenes?
  Each day children will get to see different animals up close. Some will be touchable, others not. Campers are offered special educational opportunities such as visits with zookeepers and holding an animal for a photo.
• What about drop-off and pick-up for my child?
  Children should arrive 10-15 minutes prior to class beginning and should be picked up promptly at the end of class. A parent or guardian MUST sign the child in and out each day at Education Building A.
• What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
  Full refunds are given only to those who make the request more than two weeks prior to class starting. Requests made less than two weeks prior to class will receive only a 50% refund since the spot has been reserved for you and it may not be filled. Individuals making a request within six days of the class shall not receive a refund. Rescheduling requests are determined by availability.
• Should I attend class with my child?
  It is not necessary for anyone to attend with the camper unless there are special need requirements.
• What about camp scholarships?
  Scholarships are available for qualifying youth. Applications are available in the zoo office. Call (318) 441-6810 for more information.