This downloadable activity pack accompanies the video story of Dear Zoo.
The activities are designed for children in Early Years and Years 1 & 2 and support shared reading at home, in classrooms, or in nursery settings.
Dear Zoo is a much-loved lift-the-flap classic written and illustrated by Rod Campbell. The story follows a child who writes to the zoo asking for a pet and receives a series of surprising animals in return.
These activities encourage children to talk about the story, play imaginatively and respond creatively.
Why it works
The pack supports reading for fun and shared storytelling. Children can explore the story through drawing, imaginative play and simple creative activities.
The activities also help children notice patterns, recognise characters from the story and build confidence in responding to books.
What’s included
The pack includes a range of simple activities inspired by Dear Zoo. They are flexible and easy to use at home or in the classroom.
Children can watch the video story together, pause to talk about what is happening, and then try the activities.
Animal patterns
Children trace the animal trails using a finger or pencil to practise early mark-making skills.
Act it out
Children cut out the animals and attach them to a straw or pencil. They can then use the puppets to act out the story or invent their own animal adventure.
Match up
Children draw lines to match each animal with its crate, helping them remember the characters from the story.
Monkey mask
Children colour and cut out a monkey mask, then attach elastic to wear it and pretend to be the naughty monkey from the story.
Dear Zoo drawing
Children draw the pet they would like the zoo to send them and write their name underneath.
Related resources
- Watch the Dear Zoo Video Story
- Explore more video stories
- Discover this year’s books, dressing-up ideas and activity packs
Use of World Book Day resources
These resources are free to use for schools, early years settings, libraries, charities, and community groups celebrating World Book Day. Commercial organisations must have a partnership or licence agreement in place before using World Book Day assets. If you are interested in working with us, please contact [email protected].