Tall Tails

Introducing Tall Tails: A Heartwarming Program at Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary

At Tiger Creek, we believe in creating an environment that not only nurtures our magnificent feline residents but also connects with the community in meaningful ways. That’s why we’re so excited to introduce Tall Tails, a brand new program designed to bring joy, compassion, and literacy together. This innovative program invites young children to read short stories to our residents, creating an enriching experience for both the kids and the animals!

What is Tall Tails?

Tall Tails is a unique initiative where children are encouraged to read aloud to our sanctuary’s residents. With each visit, young participants will bring their own short, fun, and age-appropriate stories and sit in front of our various enclosures to share them with our wild residents. The idea is simple: while the kids practice their reading skills and boost their confidence in reading aloud, the animals get to enjoy socializing with new people in an enriching environment.

But why? Research has shown that animals, including cats, can respond positively to the calm tones of human voices, especially those of children. By reading to them, kids not only get to experience the joy of storytelling but also foster a deeper connection with wildlife, while providing the animals with a comforting and peaceful environment.

Bon shows off his toys to a group of students

How It Works

The Tall Tails program is open to children ages 6-15. Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving kids plenty of time to read two or three short stories. Sessions are held in designated areas around the sanctuary, where the children can comfortably read to their animal friends. Trained sanctuary staff will be on hand to ensure the safety of both the children and the animals, making sure everyone is comfortable throughout the experience. Please bring a blanket to sit on and water to drink for your scholar!

The program is designed to be interactive and fun. Before the reading begins, children will have the chance to learn about the individual personalities of the animals they’ll be reading to. Whether it's a majestic lion, a playful lemur, or a social fancy rat, kids will gain insight into these incredible creatures and their natural behaviors.

Why Tall Tails Matters

Tall Tails is more than just a fun activity; it’s an opportunity to cultivate empathy, literacy, and a love for animals. Here are just a few of the reasons why this program is so special:

1. Encouraging Literacy: Reading out loud builds confidence and fluency in young readers. By offering a supportive and non-judgmental audience in the form of our resident animals, children are more likely to feel at ease while practicing their skills.

2. Building Empathy for Animals: Interacting with animals in a meaningful way helps children develop empathy. By reading to them, children not only gain an appreciation for the creatures they are reading about but also learn to respect and care for wildlife in their own communities.

3. A Calming Experience for All: The act of reading aloud to animals has been shown to have a calming effect on both children and the animals themselves. The soothing tones of the children’s voices can help lower stress levels and create a sense of peace in the sanctuary.

4. Fostering a Connection to Nature: In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, opportunities for children to connect with nature and animals are becoming less common. Tall Tails allows children to experience the magic of storytelling while also experiencing the wonder of nature in an up-close and personal way.

5. Creating Lasting Memories: The combination of wildlife, reading, and nature provides a unique experience that children will remember for years to come. Whether they’re enchanted by the sight of a tiger listening intently or proud of their reading progress, the memories they create will inspire them to continue learning and exploring.

   

   Short books or stories are welcome to be read to the residents at Tiger Creek

Join Us for Tall Tails!

We invite parents, caregivers, and educators to bring their children to the sanctuary for this special experience. Tall Tails will be held monthly, and spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early! Whether you’re looking to enhance your child’s reading abilities or simply want to share the magic of wildlife with them, Tall Tails is a perfect way to combine learning and adventure.

Ring-tailed lemur duo, Lily and Leonard, listen attentively to a story

The Future of Tall Tails

As Tall Tails grows, we envision expanding the program to include additional interactive elements like themed storytelling days, where children can read stories about specific big cat species or learn about wildlife conservation. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to see how this program evolves over time.

At Tiger Creek, our mission is to create a sanctuary not only for the animals but also for the next generation of conservationists, animal lovers, and advocates. Tall Tails is a perfect step in that direction, and we’re thrilled to offer this heartwarming program to children and families.

We hope you’ll join us in bringing the world of tall tails to life for these magnificent creatures. After all, when it comes to fostering kindness, compassion, and education, every story has the potential to make a big impact!

Interested in participating? Be sure to watch our Facebook for important announcements about all upcoming events and programs!

Tin Cup participates in story time