The vegetable leftovers from our lunch preparation are used as animal food when we visit the little zoo at Capital Paradise. We have special permission to enter the zoo if we want to pet the animals or feed them from inside the fence. The zoo visit is a great way to learn how to take care of another life and to learn about building relationships. As well as visiting the zoo once a week, Side by Side uses our pets (five cats and one dog) as learning experiences and opportunities for our students. Research shows that interaction with animals can help calm and relax people. Students are encouraged to play appropriately with the pets, and are taught how to take care of them. Working with animals helps each child learn to be gentle to other creatures, but also know when to be aware of them and develop knowledge of safety.