Ever wonder why kids love animals? Animals and pets are playful, loving, and empathetic, and hanging out with animals is a fun way to teach kids more about these compassionate traits. According to The National Institute of Health, spending time with animals reduces loneliness, increases feelings of social support, and boosts your mood. Here are three places around town where you and your grandkids can get a quick “mood boost” and spend some time out-of-doors with the animals.
1. Idlewild Butterfly Farm and Insectarium: Take the whole family to this intimate butterfly farm and insectarium, complete with a store for fun souvenirs. The butterfly farm breeds regional native butterflies for exhibits across the country, but you’re able to stop in to see and learn. You can also check out the exotic insects and arachnids housed here. What kid doesn’t love a good bug? Check their website for hours and insect tour reservations.
2. Blackacre State Nature Preserve: Take a trip to Blackacre, a 280-acre nature preserve featuring an 18th-century homestead, a large community garden, and, you guessed it, friendly farm animals! Feed animals such as horses, cows, and goats, and enjoy the various trails Blackacre has to offer. Make sure you and your family pack treats to bring with you like carrots or apples — and bring a couple of snacks for yourself, too. Open daily from dawn to dusk, Blackacre’s website contains more information about specific camps and events.
3. Gallrein Farms: Take a trip to this family-owned farm in Shelbyville to pick some strawberries in early summer and sweet corn later in the season. Strawberry picking season starts mid-May and extends until the beginning of June, making their “U-pick strawberry patch” a wonderful way to start your trip. Then take the kiddos to the petting zoo and engage with kid-friendly animals like goats, donkeys, and chickens. The farm is open from 9am to 5pm during the week and Sunday from 1-4pm. Check out their website for more details.
By Tonilyn Hornung
P.S. You may also like: 3 Easy Summertime Walks and Cool Playground Stops
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