Animals can enrich children's experiences in classrooms and child care settings. While there are many animal-themed lesson plans available, there are not many resources explaining why animals are so important in children's lives and so beneficial to their learning. This resource provides that information.
This book includes ideas to help educators and caregivers include all kinds of animals—from goldfish to guinea pigs—in a variety of ways—from classroom pets to nature walks—to create authentic experiences for children. It also provides adaptations to use if regulations do not allow animals in the child care or learning environment. It includes four-color photographs, anecdotes, research, and an explanation of the ways animals support early learning and children's social-emotional development.
This book is intended for early care and education professionals as well as anyone with a general interest in the unique and special relationships that children ages 2–8 have with animals.
Author Patty Born Selly has extensive experience with children and animals. She's developed hundreds of preschool classes on nature and science, worked as a wildlife rehabilitator, zoo volunteer, and consultant for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. She brings a wealth of knowledge to the book and shares anecdotes that convey information about each chapter's topic.
