Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique and fascinating wildlife, making it the perfect place for children to learn about nature and animals. From cuddly koalas to hopping kangaroos and curious kookaburras, the diversity of Australian wildlife offers endless opportunities for exploration and education.

Below are some exciting activities from our Young Academics Educational Leaders to help your children learn more about Australian wildlife while having fun.

Create an Australian Animal Habitat Diorama

Building a diorama is a creative and hands-on way for children to learn about the natural habitats of Australian animals. It helps them understand the different environments where animals live, such as rainforests, deserts, and coastal areas.

Use a shoebox as the base for the diorama. Choose an animal, such as a kangaroo, platypus, or wombat, and research its habitat. Paint or draw a background that represents the environment (trees, rocks, water, etc.), then add small figurines or cut-outs of animals. You can even use natural elements like leaves, sand, or twigs to bring the habitat to life.

This activity encourages creativity and critical thinking as children build and learn about the habitats that Australian wildlife depend on.

Go on a Backyard Wildlife Safari

You don’t need to travel far to explore Australian wildlife – your own backyard or local park is filled with interesting creatures! A backyard safari is a fantastic way for children to observe insects, birds, and other small animals in their natural surroundings.

Equip your child with a notebook, magnifying glass, and binoculars, then head outdoors to see what animals they can spot. Encourage them to observe butterflies, ants, spiders, and birds. Afterward, have them draw or write about what they saw and discuss the importance of these creatures in the ecosystem.

This activity helps children develop observational skills while fostering a connection to local wildlife, encouraging them to be curious and respectful of the environment.

Make Animal-Themed Crafts

Crafting is a fun way to explore the world of Australian wildlife while developing fine motor skills and creativity. By making animal masks, puppets, or artwork, children can learn about different species in an interactive and memorable way.

Choose an iconic Australian animal like a koala, echidna, or Tasmanian devil. Using paper plates, craft paper, and markers, help your child create a mask or puppet of the chosen animal. Add googly eyes, yarn for fur, or pipe cleaners for whiskers to make the creation more lifelike. You can also talk about where the animal lives and what it eats.

Watch Australian Wildlife Documentaries

Documentaries are a fantastic way to introduce children to Australia’s wildlife in their natural habitats. Watching animals in the wild helps children learn about behaviours, adaptations, and the importance of conservation.

Choose age-appropriate wildlife documentaries that focus on Australian animals. Some great options include Australia: Land of Parrots, Kangaroo Dundee, and Great Barrier Reef. After watching, discuss the animals featured in the documentary, their habitats, and any interesting facts they learned.

Visit a Wildlife Sanctuary or Zoo

Taking your child to a wildlife sanctuary or zoo provides an up-close experience with Australia’s iconic animals. It’s a great way to learn more about wildlife conservation and observe animals that are difficult to spot in the wild.

Plan a trip to a local wildlife sanctuary or zoo where your child can see Australian animals like koalas, wallabies, and dingoes. Many zoos and sanctuaries offer educational programs, feeding sessions, and animal encounters, giving children the chance to ask questions and learn from experts. Be sure to check out the exhibits that focus on conservation and habitat protection.

Read Australian Wildlife Books

Reading books about Australian wildlife is an excellent way to spark your child’s interest in nature and animals. Stories and educational books can introduce them to different species and their unique characteristics.

Look for engaging picture books or fact-based books about Australian wildlife. Titles like Diary of a Wombat by Jackie French, Possum Magic by Mem Fox, and One Careless Night by Christina Booth are great options for younger readers. After reading, encourage your child to share their favourite facts or draw their favourite animal from the story.

Australia’s wildlife is truly extraordinary and exploring it can be a fun and educational experience for children. Whether indoors or outdoors, these activities will encourage curiosity and inspire your child to appreciate the beauty of Australian wildlife.

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Exploring Australian Wildlife with children