We started our ‘Animals’ project by reading lots of stories about animals, and talking about the pets we have at home... Can you REALLY have a monkey as a pet? We talked about what animals were good as pets, and what would be better in the wild. We discussed animal habitats, where do tigers live? Where do giraffes live and what do they eat? The children had lots of ideas, and soon got onto the subject of animals in the zoo, and loved hearing the story ‘Dear Zoo’ and accompanying story tape. We felt that a trip to London Zoo would complement our ‘Animals’ project, as the children showed a real interest and enthusiasm about the topic. We listened to animal soundtracks, and played with ‘fur’. We continued our theme in gym, where each of the children pretended to be different animals. Finally, after much excitement, the day of the trip came. Although it turned out to be rainy, the children had a wonderful time. They got to see some of the animals we had been talking about, and particularly enjoyed visiting the children’s zoo section, where they could actually touch and feed some animals. As it was raining, we decided to visit the zoo’s aquarium and reptile house. The children were able to touch some real snake skin, and feel a turtle’s shell. Adults and children alike loved the illuminated shapes of snakes and turtles that crept across the floor of the reptile house, although we did have to convince everyone they were only pretend! All in all, the children had a wonderful day, and the trip was a lovely way to enhance their learning about animals. The topic has been continued, with the children creating wonderful artwork showing the zoo through their eyes, and we still hear them talking about the tiger who was asleep and the monkeys balancing on ropes….