Australian Reptile Park Develops Inclusive Kids 2 Keeper For Children With Additional Needs

The Australian Reptile Park has developed a new experience, Inclusive Kids 2 Keeper is a brand-new zookeeper experience, modified to be inclusive and accessible for children ages 7-18 who are living with a disability. This experience will give children with sensory processing disorders, autism, or reduced mobility the opportunity to experience a Kids 2 Keeper tour, alongside their carers.

Hosted by three experienced zookeepers, this hands-on tour at the Australian Reptile Park will get kids up close to tawny frogmouths, Australian reptiles, koalas, kangaroos, and echidnas and more!

This experience will take place in our Undercover Area, Main Park Area and Show Pit and is fully accessible for visitors who use a wheelchair.

• Separate tours will be run for different age groups. Inclusive Little Kids 2 Keeper is for ages 7-12 and Inclusive Big Kids 2 Keeper is for ages 13-18.
• The experience will commence at 8.00 am (before the Park opens to the general public) so that participants can enjoy their hands-on time with reptiles and birds in the Undercover Area without noises and distractions from other visitors.
• Noise-cancelling ear muffs are available to borrow if needed
• Calming Sensory Kits (5 available) are available on request if participants are feeling overwhelmed and need some quiet time.

What's included? 

• Two-hour zookeeper experience for participating child and supervision access to the tour for participating carer
• Morning tea (banana bread & drink) for participating children and one hot drink for each carer
• Access to the Australian Reptile Park at the conclusion of the tour

Cost?

• Inclusive Little Kids 2 Keeper (ages 7-12) – $100 per pair
• Inclusive Big Kids 2 Keeper (ages 13-18) – $120 per pair
• A guardian MUST accompany the participating child with a one-to-one ratio. One ticket is valid for admission for one child AND one carer.

Things To Note:

• Inclusive K2K commences at 8.00 am sharp, but please be there 15mins early to sign in at Reception to ensure the group starts on time
• A maximum of 9 pairs (18 participants) may join the tour
• A minimum of 6 pairs (12 participants) is needed for the tour to go ahead. If the minimum number is not met, the tour will be rescheduled
• Please inform us of any dietary requirements prior to the tour
• Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended. Enclosed shoes are required.
• Tour will go ahead rain or shine

For more information: Inclusive Kids 2 Keeper