Ready for the Tropics? Take a Trip to KiDiMu’s ‘Zany Rainy Forest’
By Dana Thompson
If you’re looking for an afternoon adventure, step into the lush green of “The Zany Rainy Forest” at the Kids Discovery Museum on Bainbridge Island. Running through Aug. 30, the museum’s latest exhibit combines the wonder and science of the world’s tropical rain forests in a colorful, interactive space for kids of all ages.
On the main floor, a canopy of mock leaves filters light over an airy space complete with murals of African, Amazonian, and Asian forest flora and fauna. Parrots, snakes, frogs, monkeys, a cheetah and a crocodile beckon visitors into the mystery of the jungles. A large tree draws kids up a bamboo ramp where they can keep watch with telescopes from the fort’s lookout, snuggle with giant speckled eggs in a larger-than-life eagle’s nest, or dress up in various critter costumes.
A “Discovery Tent” provides would-be explorers with a comprehensive wall map marking all of the world’s rain forests, as well as safari jackets, hats, books, puzzles and activities to outfit their trip.
Toward the rear of the exhibit, a 10-foot-long amethystine python lures intrepid visitors to tunnel through his open mouth and is a great place to grab a photo. For kids needing some down time, a craft table offers a daily art project, while two grass huts provide a haven where kids can curl up, make up stories or draw pictographs using light-writers on the huts’ phosphorescent painted walls.
The murals continue downstairs, where adventurers can carry on at a field tent and mess table. Little (and not so little) riders will like the small climbing elephant. A raised section painted like ancient ruins provides puppets and a stage for theatrical productions, while the museum’s signature phosphorescent wall allows kids to trace their travels on a large sensory map.
Throughout the entire exhibit, “Who am I?” plaques challenge visitors’ knowledge of rain forest creatures in fun and educational riddles, while scent boxes test inquisitive noses with the aromas of cinnamon, chocolate, orchid, vanilla and coffee.
Dana Thompson is a Bainbridge Island-based free-lance writer and mother of two. Both of her kids enjoyed their jaunt through the Zany Rainy Forest, and especially liked sneaking up and scaring their mother in spider costumes.
