What’s a better way to celebrate it than by giving your child an unforgettable experience in nature? If you’re planning a wildlife safari in Tadoba National Park with your munchkin, you’re in for a thrilling adventure. A safari offers a unique opportunity for kids to see wildlife in its natural habitat, teaching them to appreciate and respect the beauty of nature. However, taking a child on a safari requires a bit of preparation to ensure they enjoy the experience and stay safe. From educating them about the wildlife they might encounter to teaching them essential safari etiquette, this guide will help you get your munchkin safari-ready. This Children’s Day, give your child the gift of nature and wildlife while making sure they are well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

Start with Educational Preparation

Before heading out on your Tadoba safari, it’s important to introduce your child to the concept of wildlife and national parks. Children may be more familiar with animals from books or TV shows, but seeing these creatures in real life is a whole different experience. To help them understand what to expect, consider these fun and educational activities:

• Watch Documentaries  

• Read Wildlife Book

• Introduce Maps and Geography

Teach Basic Safari Etiquette

Wildlife safaris come with their own set of rules, and children must understand them before stepping into the park. Here’s how you can teach your child proper safari etiquette:

• Teach them the importance of staying quiet and observing from a distance. You can practice whispering or using soft voices at home to get them used to it.

• Help your child understand that sudden movements, like jumping or waving, can startle the animals.

• Kids are often curious and might want to interact with the animals. It's important to make it clear that animals in the wild are different from pets. Feeding or trying to touch them is not only dangerous but harmful to the animals' well-being.

Instil a Sense of Responsibility Towards Nature

A wildlife safari is a great way to teach your child about responsible tourism and the importance of protecting the environment. Start by explaining how littering can harm animals and disrupt their habitat. Encourage your child to take responsibility by ensuring they don’t throw any garbage out during the safari. Carry a small bag for trash and explain the importance of keeping the park clean.

Book a Canter Safari for a Safer Experience

While jeeps are also available on a sharing basis in Tadoba, canters can accommodate more. Taking your munchkin in large groups in canter can ignite his/her excitement further with more scope of interaction. Tadoba Canter Safari is only available in Kolara and Moharli Zones, renowned for tiger sightings. Getting the safari experience in canter along with a large group is a safer option if your child is too young. 

What to Pack for Your Child on the Safari

Packing the right essentials for your child is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable safari experience. Here's a checklist of must-have items for the Tadoba safari:

• Comfortable Clothing  

• Hat and Sunglasses

• Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

• Healthy Snacks and Water

• Binoculars

• First-Aid Kit

Prepare Your Child for Wildlife Sightings

While the main attraction in Tadoba is spotting the Bengal tiger, it’s important to prepare your child for the possibility of not seeing certain animals. Wildlife safaris depend on luck, and animals like tigers may not always make an appearance. Instead of focusing solely on tigers, encourage your child to be excited about spotting other animals such as deer, monkeys, birds, and crocodiles.