Rainbows Go Wild
At the Zoo
Rainbows,
the youngest of our Girlguiding UK members, had lots of fun
this summer by exploring their wild side. Over 12,000 Rainbows
visited events at Belfast Zoo, Folly Farm, Chester Zoo, Twycross
Zoo, Paignton Zoo, Whipsnade Zoo, London Zoo, Edinburgh Zoo and the
Welsh Mountain Zoo.
Rainbows were able to meet over 45,000 animals
in a series of shows, displays and unique hands-on experiences. In
some of the zoos, the girls were even given the opportunity to help
prepare and feed animals including giraffes, lorikeets, sea lions
and hippos. They met some of the zoo keepers and had the chance to
quiz them about their jobs, including finding out more about animal
conservation and endangered animals.
As well as meeting and learning about the
animals, the girls were entertained by stilt walkers, had
their faces painted and joined together with lots of
other Rainbows for a picnic and play in the park. Our Rainbow
mascot, Olivia, also made a special appearance at some of the
events, which was a highlight for many of the girls.
Each Rainbow received a Rainbows Go Wild!
goody bag thanks to a sponsorship with Ladybird Books.
Churchill Rainbows from Somerset North gave
their day at the zoo top marks, saying it was 'the bestest
outing we have ever been on'.
Princess Parties
Princess
Parties were held across the UK with many of these taking place at
the Girlguiding UK Training and Activity Centres
(TACs). Rainbows enjoyed dressing up as princesses in an array
of sparkly and pink dresses, with one even providing princess
outfits for all the girls. They were also treated like princesses
with events including trips on horse-drawn carriages, pink picnics,
making sparkly jewellery, tiaras, hair jewels and face
painting.
'It was the best princess party I've ever
been to!' Rachael, a Rainbow from the Penicuik Rainbow
unit.