Put Me In the Zoo

This may be a no brainer for moms, but the zoo is the place to be! A zoo pass is one of the first things we purchased when we came to Seattle. If you are looking for a zoo pass, do some research before you visit. Look online for "all city" passes or even museum and zoo passes to other cities that will give you access to attractions across the country. A quick google search may even bring up Groupon or LivingSocial deals.

We know taking Audette to the zoo is a sure fire way to keep her busy for the day, but an even better idea? Plan a trip with a group of kids! A darling mom we recently met, Summer, has become the self appointed organizer for group walks and outings around town. I am so impressed with moms like her. Not only does it take time, but a lot of patience to coordinate a bunch of schedules and make a group outings happen. We tagged along on the stroller brigade through the zoo with these lovely ladies.

Although I absolutely love the zoo, at this age it can be a little difficult for kids to pick out all of the animals up in the trees and far off in the distance. Sometimes a little prep at home will make all the difference for your trip to the zoo. We love animal books that allow us to practice picking out the animals on the page and work on our animal noises.

Audette's top picks:
Put Me In the Zoo
Dear Zoo
Moo, Baa, La La La
15 Animals

I also love an idea my friend Kim posted on Instagram recently. They are prepping to go to the San Diego Zoo and bought their little guy plastic animals to practice their animal noises. How great that they are not only teaching their son, but helping him build a little anxiety for a big trip!

You may even find that your little one enjoys people watching more than checking out the animals. Don't be afraid to just sit and people watch. This is one reason going with a group can make the adventure more fun for your kid and yourself.

Another important thing to remember with little ones, plan for break time. We packed lunches and snacks to keep everyone occupied throughout the day. Audette's favorite part of the day: eating and hand holding with her little buddy.