n Petting Zoo And getting to know the animals in the zoo gives kids the opportunity to learn to understand and respect the feelings of others as Houston Petting Zoo is the best petting zoo. At Houston Petting Zoo, these lessons can be taken one step further by giving them the chance to regularly engage with animals they might not ordinarily be able to keep at home. Develop Bonds in a Comfortable Environment For many children, making new friends is challenging due to shyness, or they may just need a special critter to snuggle with after a stressful day at school. While summer camps help foster friendships between children of all ages by providing relaxing activities, there is just something special about the connection kids make with their new and furry friends. From whispering secrets into a bunny's ear to stroking the soft fur of a baby goat, children quickly form bonds with the animals in their barnyard zoo. These experiences allow them to strengthen their relationship skills. Since the "residents" in a petting zoo are acclimated to being around children, parents can be reassured that their child will be able to practice showing empathy to animals that are going to return their affection. Learn to Pick Up on Non-Verbal Cues Most children are very self-expressive verbally, but they often need guidance with learning how to pick up on non-verbal communication. Since animals can't talk, kids must pay attention to little signs such as wagging tails and squirming. At the petting zoo, adults help to model gentle behavior with children to teach them when an animal is saying they are ready to be held and when they want to be put down. As children get to know the "critters" even better, it is fun to watch them start to adjust their behavior to communicate with their favorites. For example, you will see a child learn to crouch and wait patiently with their hand out for a shyer animal to come over. Other times, with a playful young pup, they may be a little more rambunctious. See the Positive Effects of Showing Compassion Feeling a kitten purring in their hands and getting nudged by a friendly goat lets kids see the immediate effects of showing empathy. And those who regularly visit a petting zoo also get opportunities to care for the animals in petting zoo 