The Saint Louis Zoo will will host the Big Eyes, Big Minds International Children's Film Festival of St. Louis, showcasing the best films from around the world to educate, enrich and inspire kids ages 1 to 16. All programs feature age-appropriate live-action and animated short films which are universally relevant to kids. The mission of the film festival is to expose children to diverse and imaginative works to broaden their view of the world, foster critical thinking and inspire creative expression.
Each program includes a series of 6 to 11 short films from various countries, ranging from award-winning animated films to child-produced films. Each film is between 1 and 30 minutes long.
Films will be shown on Saturdays: Feb. 9, 16 and 23. Tickets are available online and at the door. Showtimes are 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.
Tickets are $9 per person for ages 2 and up. Children under 2 are free. Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by at least one adult. Films are shown in the Anheuser-Busch Theater in the Living World /North Entrance at the Saint Louis Zoo.
After each screening, members of the Zoo education Department will offer a short filmmaking opportunity and other film-related activities for kids. The Wild Wonder Outpost discovery room for young children, located in the Living World, will be free of charge after the 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. film screenings.
More information, a full schedule of times and dates of each movie, and tickets: stlzoo.org
Stop in and have some fun in the indoor pool at the Lodge of Des Peres with your little one at this drop-in swim time for kids up to age 6. No pre-registration is needed; Water Waddlers is open to residents and non-residents of Des Peres.
The Preschool Science Series is an open exploration learning lab for young scientists - ages 18 months to 5 years - and their families. Activities are designed around research that shows children learn best through play, inquiry and shared experiences with their parents and caregivers.
At Sensory Friendly Night at Boo at the Zoo, families can enjoy festive decorations, Zoo attractions, entertainers, special food and drink menus and more in an environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This special night will mirror the traditional Boo at the Zoo experience, but also includes sensory maps, quiet areas and trained Zoo staff to assists guests.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!