Zoos and the play agenda
Whatever else good zoos, nature site and aquaria are, they are also fantastic playgrounds. The core, most primitive appeal of the zoo must be to dive into this fantastic, exotic world and explore and exult in the game of the living world.
Is there anything more important for the healthy development of humans (…”Homo ludens…?”), adults as well as children – socially, intellectually, culturally and ethically…?
The UK Government recognises this in publising a major report:, which you can download here: reviewofchildrensplay2.pdf
And an entire national organisation exists to promote healthy, safe play: ttp://www.playengland.org.uk
Could the zoo world adopt a greater and more explicit role within this agenda..?
2 Responses to “Zoos and the play agenda”
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Why are the play areas always located in just one spot? Zoos should place the monkey bars by a monkey exhibit, stick the climbing wall by the ibex, jam the slide in next to the otter pen, and for heaven’s sake place the water feature by an aquatic animal for once.
Hi Matt, I am not sure you are entirely fair to all zoos across the world. Many do exactly what you say: theme play facilities to specific exhibits or taxonomic groups.
But, of course, you are right, our zoos could always be more imaginative as to the realisation of the very idea of play.
I guess I always look for interests external to the zoo and aquarium community, and the extra resources they bring with them, to see zoo sites as a (or possibly even the) logical opportunity to promote innovative concepts of play.
And I am not sure that just old fashioned facilities that really just use up children’s excess energy (tho’ that is important too) are exciting enough
And for that matter, play isn’t just for children.
I am 51 and still ‘play’
Best, John