Camps and Activities for Animal-Loving Kids

I'm pretty sure if my middle child had the choice between me and a Panda, there'd be no contest. My husband would have to learn to love bamboo.

Rather than forcing a choice, I've been looking for ways to satisfy her passion for all things fuzzy and furry. Here's a sample of the camps and activities for animal lovers:

*Summer Camp at the National Zoo. It's not cheap and it's not close, but boy, are there some cool opportunities at the Summer Safari day camps for kids. There are camps for kids in grades K - 1, 2 - 3, and 4 - 5. After-care is available for kids in grades 2 and up. The cost is $210 for the K - 1 camp and $315 for kids in grades 2 - 5.

The National Zoo also sponsors an overnight camp for kids in grades 5 - 10 at the Conservation and Research Center in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. See here for more details.

*Closer to home and less expensive are camps at the areas animal shelters. As of this writing, the Alexandria Animal Shelter hasn't released its information for 2009, but here's a link to the information from last year so you can get an idea of what's involved. DD has to wait a few years: this camp is for kids ages 9 - 12.

The Animal Welfare League of Arlington has a camp for kids ages 10 - 13. The cost is $200 for a full week (Mon- Fri, 10 - 4) with the them: A Week in the Life of the Animal Welfare League.

They also have a three-day camp for kids ages 6 - 9. The theme is Dogs, Cats, and Critters and the cost is $120 for a Wed - Fri session from 10 - 3. Registration has already begun.

*A birthday party at the Animal Welfare League in Arlington where for $125 for up to 25 guests, your child can have a tour of the facility and do a quick activity (animal origami or decorating animal cupcakes; you provide supplies). We chose to ask the birthday guests to bring a gift for the animals in lieu of a traditional present. DD still has plenty from Christmas!

For everyday outings, animal lovers can visit Oxon Hill Farm, just over the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. Best when the weather is warmer, your kids can see a real farm in action, get a guided tour, and visit up close with farm animals. Travel south for ranger-led programs at Mason Neck State Park near Lorton; they sometimes offer short camp programs in summer, too, though those are not yet listed.

Have your own favorites? Please share!