Chaperones are an integral part of a successful field trip. It is an important responsibility and can help make the group’s experience safe, fun and educational. The Zoo requires a minimum of one chaperone for every five students.

It is the responsibility of the chaperone to:

• Keep the children safe.
• Keep the animals safe.
• Review Zoo Etiquette (www.senecaparkzoo.org) and reinforce Zoo policies.
• Know the names of all students in your group. We recommend name tags.
• Make sure all students know your name.
• Stay with your students at all times.
• Assist students who have an emergency by notifying Zoo staff.
• Help students dispose of trash and recyclables into proper containers.
• Reinforce the same behaviors your group leader or teacher expects in their program or classroom.
• Prevent students from harassing, chasing or feeding any Zoo animals or native animals. Do not allow students to drop or throw things into a Zoo exhibit, or disturb animals by tapping on the glass or shouting.
• Not allow students to cross barriers or enter non-public areas.
• Keep students on paved pathways.
• Remind your students that climbing is only allowed on children’s play equipment.
• Ensure your students act in a respectful manner to Zoo animals, staff and fellow visitors.

Prepare for the field trip by:

• Talking to the teacher or group leader before the trip to understand your responsibilities.
• Gathering all important information and materials, including meeting times, lunch time/location and bus information.
• Wearing comfortable clothing and shoes. You will be doing a great deal of walking.
• Bring a cell phone to use in case of an emergency. Be sure to obtain an emergency phone number from the teacher or group leader before you arrive at the Zoo.

Ensure your students have a fun learning experience by:

• Engaging them. Some examples are:
  1. Have them read the animal information labels to you.
  2. Ask them questions. You don’t need to be an animal expert!
     • For example: If the label says polar bears live where it is cold, ask your students what they think they might need to survive the cold? (i.e. heavy coats.) Then compare that with the polar bear.
  3. Make your own mini-scavenger hunt!
     • For example: Ask them to find five animals that live in Africa. Or three animals that are black and white.
  4. Ask them to make connections about adaptations!
     • For example: Snow leopards have long, thick tails. Why might that be helpful? (To help stay warm in cold temperatures)
  5.  Have them choose a favorite animal in each area and tell you why

Marine Toad

Senegal Parrot

Burmese python

Southern three-banded armadillo

One Cubic Foot

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