Recommended reads:
Crossings: Extraordinary Structures for Extraordinary Animals by Katy S. Duffield, illustrated by Mike Orodan. This book is both moving and educational, a testament to what humans can accomplish when they have a common purpose and caring hearts.
Honey: The Dog Who Saved Abraham Lincoln by Shari Swanson, illustrated by Chuck Groenink. A charming story about Abraham Lincoln as a child and his real life hero dog.
After Dark: Poems about Nocturnal Animals by David L. Harrison, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis. This book of poems is creative and educational and is pleasant to read. The illustrations are lovely too!
This Way, Charlie by Caron Levis, illustrated by Charles Santoso. A truly charming and moving story inspired by a real life animal friendship.
Ideas for things to discuss:
- Talk about the story. Is it fiction or nonfiction? Realistic or fantastical?
- What kind of animals do you find most amazing?
- What kinds of animals make good pets? What might make the worst pet?
- How can you help make the world a better place for animals? How can you start in your own back yard?
- Did you learn something new about an animal in the book you read?
- Head to the zoo!
- Go on a neighborhood safari. Take pictures or keep a list of the animals you see.
- Donate to an animal shelter.
- Hang a bird feeder in your yard. Here are some DIY bird feeders kids can make on their own from LetGrow.
- Have an animal-themed movie night.
- Create some animal-inspired art, like this torn paper animal art collage from EduArt 4 Kids.
Comments