NORFOLK, Va. — The Virginia Zoo christened the newest attraction, a nature playground.
It's a one-acre area that offers a bamboo maze, stump jump, willow tunnel, giant boulders, dig boxes, balance beams, and a Conservation Cabin for educational programs.
The playground is called “Run Wild! Nature Discovery Zone.”
“This is a space where children and their families can let their imaginations run wild!” said Greg Bockheim, Executive Director of the Virginia Zoo. “Using natural elements, we encourage free play in this space - there is no ‘right’ way to play,” Bockheim added.
The zoo said this space was built to stimulate the imagination and allow children to take calculated risks, which helps build critical decision-making skills.
The playground was opened by zoo staff, volunteers, donors, and members during the Zoo's annual Members night.
Play helps children to develop cognitively, physically, emotionally and socially. Plus, taking risks is how children learn to make decisions for themselves.
OTHER ZOO NEWS:
- Virginia Zoo welcomes red river hogs
- The Virginia Zoo welcomes giraffe calf!
- Zebra born at The Virginia Zoo named Zelda
- Leave the kids at home, adults only Zoo night in May, July, August
- NC Zoo names newest baby chimpanzee 'Obi'
- Endangered Red Wolf pups born at Museum of Life and Science on Earth Day
- Victoria crowned pigeon hatches at The Virginia Zoo
