Animal magic for Camp Simcha

Camp Simcha families enjoyed a Special Children’s Day Zoological Society of London trip to London Zoo.

More than 200 family members and Camp Simcha volunteers took part in activities from sensory storytelling to wildlife gardening, as well as a chance to meet animals close-up and get hands on in the touch paddock at the Zoo’s Animal Adventure exhibit.

Alongside the special events, families were able to visit the 700 species that call the Zoo home, from Asiatic lions and 10-month-old Sumatran tiger cubs to mischievous squirrel monkeys, meerkats and mongooses.

Camp Simcha Head of Services Daniel Gillis said: “Days like this are fantastic for our families because, for many, it is a struggle to take a child who requires extra care and support to a public venue. By having specially designed activities such as sensory areas, sign language events and areas with facilities geared to their needs, families we support can take advantage of the fantastic features the Zoo offers.”

ZSL’s Hannah Pritchard, coordinator of the event, said: “Special Children’s Day is a wonderful event that provides lots of exciting ways for children with a variety of needs to enjoy a day at the Zoo. We were thrilled to be joined by so many Camp Simcha families who all seemed to be enjoying the activities laid on.”