Live Animal Presentation Tips

Keep the Presentations Age Appropriate

• You wouldn't want to talk advanced biology with a roomful of first graders, but you may want to have those discussions with a classroom of older children. Live animal shows and presentations should be more than mere entertainment. This up-close look at nature can help foster a lifelong love of the natural world, and possibly engender a newfound environmental consciousness among members of the next generation.

Tell the Story of Each Animal

• Some live animal presentations and demonstrations are put together by rescue organizations and other groups that take in unwanted or injured animals. Whether the organization is a big cat rescue or a sanctuary that helps heal injured wild animals, it is important for the presentation to include a brief history of each animal.

  Telling the story of each animal as it is presented is a great way to educate the public about animals, nature and the audience's relationship with both. It is one thing to tell the audience that alligators make lousy pets, but it is quite another to present a six foot gator that was a cute and cuddly hatchling only a few short years ago.

Provide Plenty of Hands On Time

• Those who come to a live animal presentation may have a desire to learn, but the overriding desire of many members of the audience is to touch those exotic creatures. It is crucial for presenters to incorporate plenty of hands on time for the kids (and their parents). Bringing out each unique and fascinating animal and allowing the kids to touch it is a great way to help them learn while having fun.

  Live animal presentations are also a great way for kids to get over their fear of snakes, lizards and other often misunderstood animals. Ensure everyone knows the rules for approaching an animal to remain safe. Also have a competent handler on hand to show the kids the best way to touch each animal. Allowing the kids to ask questions is a great way to enhance the effectiveness of the presentation as well.