Nature offers abundant learning opportunities. More importantly, these can be adapted for children of all abilities, including those with developmental needs or behavioural challenges.
Allowing children to explore at their own pace builds their self-esteem and confidence and can positively impact learning, notes Ms May Lok, Vice President (Education), Mandai Wildlife Group. She elaborates, “Activities like observing wildlife and identifying plants stimulate curiosity, imagination, problem-solving skills and much more. As children ask questions and engage in discussions, they build up language and communication skills and expand their understanding of the world around them.”
At the zoo, children get to observe wild animals and even feed them.
Wildlife parks offer sensory experiences with varied textures, sounds, smells and visual stimuli. Ms Lok notes this setting supports children with sensory processing issues, helping them develop skills to receive and respond to information from the senses.
She adds, “Nature-based activities have been linked to better regulation of emotions and improved emotional well-being. They can help calm and soothe children and reduce their anxiety and stress.”
DESIGNED FOR ALL CHILDREN
Mandai’s wildlife parks have integrated the principles of universal design, creating accessible and inclusive environments for all. This approach ensures that children, regardless of abilities and needs, can enjoy positive experiences with nature and animals.
River Wonders, one of Mandai’s wildlife parks, organises an annual Autism Awareness Weekend, where zoo educators engage guests in specially curated activities.
For example, the amphitheatres have dedicated areas for visitors with mobility aids. The KidzWorld zone at Singapore Zoo provides various play opportunities, including sensory and water play, as well as up-close interactions with animals. The Pangolin Playground at Mandai Wildlife West has wheelchair-accessible play equipment.
Each wildlife park has a sensory map highlighting rest areas and quiet corners as well as locations of enclosed places with free-ranging animals. Children prone to overstimulation or sensory issues can seek respite from the crowds and noise.
In addition, social scripts — which use storytelling techniques, simple language and images — allow children to get acquainted with the sights and encounters at the wildlife parks prior to their trip. This is especially helpful for those on the autistic spectrum, as preparing them for what to expect will help reduce stress or overwhelming feelings during their visit.
