Animal Explorers (5-7yrs)

Does your child love animals and want to know more about what it really takes to care for them? 

Through stories, games, creative activities and guided animal welfare experiences, the program introduces young children to animal care helping them understand that animals have feelings, needs and boundaries too. Along the way, children build confidence, and empathy while learning simple ways they can show kindness to animals at home and in their community. 

Feelings-Mine and Theirs 

Children become animal detectives as they explore how dogs, cats and other companion animals communicate through their bodies and behaviour. They learn to recognise simple signs that an animal may be happy, relaxed, worried or in need of some space. 

Gentle Hands, Kind Hearts 

Through games and role play, children learn how to approach animals safely, why we ask before touching, and how gentle, respectful interactions help animals feel comfortable and secure. 

Animals Have Needs Too 

Food and water are important but animals need much more! Children explore the things that help animals thrive, including a safe home, veterinary care, exercise, play, rest, enrichment and kindness. 

Meet and Learn About AWLQ Animals  

Where appropriate, children may have the opportunity to observe or interact with selected AWLQ animals in carefully supervised, welfare-focused experiences. Children learn that animals have choices too and sometimes the kindest thing we can do is watch quietly and give an animal space. 

The three-hour program includes all supervised activities and materials, age-appropriate animal welfare learning and an AWLQ Animal Explorers Certificate. 

Rather than focusing on lots of hands-on animal handling, the program teaches children that being an animal lover also means learning to stop, look, listen and make kind choices based on what an animal is telling us. 

Snacks for morning tea

Bottle of water and/or juice

Sunscreen & hat

What you need to wear:

Comfortable closed in shoes

Comfortable, casual clothes

No jewellery or accessories that could be lost or damaged

Please apply insect repellent prior to arriving

Places are limited to help us provide a safe, supportive and engaging experience for every child and to ensure the welfare of animals involved in the program. 

Age requirements are applied to ensure activities are developmentally appropriate and that children attending receive the best possible experience.

Please be aware that this program takes place within a busy working shelter environment, which may lead to instances of overstimulation such as dogs barking, strong odours, and the presence of other excited participants. Additionally, part of the program will include educational sessions held in a classroom setting. If your young person will require additional support to thrive in the program there is the possibility to purchase a support person ticket to assist on the day.

We are committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate please email educationofficer@awlq.org.au