Designate a small area for a petting zoo. This area should be well supervised by staff who work with animals. Allow a minimal number of children in at a time so the animals are not overwhelmed. Children can take part in a feeding station to feed the farm animals. Provide an information station that gives details and descriptions of each animal. The petting zoo may also offer pony rides.
Children love to turn into different characters. The face painting station lets the imagination run wild. Hang pictures of various artwork that children and parents can choose. The child may choose to have her entire face painted or just get a small emblem like a butterfly painted on a cheek. Use paint that is easily washable and nontoxic so everyone has a positive experience.
Inflatable jumpers give children a chance to exert energy and stay physically fit. Create excitement by providing two or three different inflatables for kids to choose. Designate inflatables for younger and older children so that no one is hurt. During the jumping, assign a person to watch the jumpers to keep the area safe.
Children can leisurely watch characters "come to life" in a puppet show. Place the show on a small stage that is not too far away from the audience. Make the show even more entertaining by including the audience. Allow audience response for part of the show so the child will feel like one of the characters.
Interactive dance performances allow the children a chance to get up and dance with the performers. Include various dances, from quick-paced African dance to ballet. This activity will introduce movement styles to the participants and may lead the child to want to learn more. Another idea is for children's favorite characters to perform dances throughout the audience and pick kids along the way to get up and dance.