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Step 1
Determine your number of guests. Most zoos base the price of the party on the number of kids attending your party. Package deals are available that include this number. Some zoos charge extra guests additional fees in the range of $8 to $20.
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Step 2
Review the different packages. Zoo parties can be affordable with the basic packages ranging from $200 to $450. These packages usually include zoo admission, lunch, birthday cake and/or ice cream, decorations and a zoo guide. Additions (at an additional cost) include special features such as train rides, time with a zookeeper and admission to special exhibits.
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Step 3
Send zoo-themed invitations to your child's friends. Be sure to send them to the home addresses. Most schools will not let you give out invitations at school. Get a list of phone numbers from the parent-teacher organization to gather addresses.
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Step 4
Decide on a plan for chaperones. With 20 children, it can be hard for two people to keep up with so many little ones. Be sure to ask for parent volunteers to attend with their children. It is a good idea to assign buddies and to have stick-on name tags. Have a pre-party talk with the kids about what to do if they wander away from the group.
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Step 5
Provide a favor for all the children. Whether it's a picture with your child or a goodie bag filled with creepy crawly plastic spiders and snakes, the children attending the party will appreciate it.
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Step 6
Make a plan for gifts. If children bring gifts to the party, you will need a plan for storage. Some zoos provide lockers for rent or allow you to use a wagon to return packages to your car. Be sure to ask about this when you reserve the party space.
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Step 7
Have fun! By letting the zoo provide the party food and atmosphere, be sure to enjoy this time with your child. Take lots of pictures and ask questions. Let your child know you are having a good time.
