About Parrots: A Guide for Children
About… Series
What’s inside...
A beautiful, informative first glance at the world of parrots. In this addition to the acclaimed About... series, author and educator Cathryn Sill uses simple, easy-to-understand language to teach children what parrots are, what they do, and how they live. With beautifully detailed, realistic paintings, noted wildlife illustrator John Sill introduces readers to the diverse population of parrots—from the colorful blue lorikeets of the Polynesian Islands to the rosy-faced lovebirds of southwestern Africa. An afterword provides more details for further exploration.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes parrots unique compared to other birds?
If you could talk to a parrot, what would you ask it?
How do you think parrots feel when they are in the wild compared to being pets?
Why do you think parrots mimic sounds and words they hear?
What can we do to make sure parrots are happy and healthy in their habitats?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading the book, pause when new facts about parrots are introduced and ask your child what they think about it.
Show genuine interest in their responses to encourage more detailed thoughts and opinions.
Share your own feelings about parrots and their habitats to model thoughtful engagement with the text.
After reading, help your child draw a picture of a parrot or create a parrot craft to deepen connection with the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The book educates about the various species of parrots and their natural habitats, emphasizing the importance of preserving these environments.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of environmental conservation and may be inspired to participate in activities that support wildlife protection.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through detailed care instructions for parrots, the book outlines the commitments involved in caring for a pet.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these teachings by being more diligent and responsible in their daily chores, understanding that consistent effort is crucial in caregiving.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The narrative encourages understanding from the parrot's perspective, fostering a sense of empathy towards animals.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the feelings and well-being of others, enhancing their interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The guide covers interesting facts about parrots, sparking curiosity and a love for learning in young readers.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek out more information, promoting lifelong learning habits.
Example Lesson: Diversity
Explanation: It showcases the variety of parrot species across the world, teaching about biological and ecological diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and celebrate differences among living things, which can extend to understanding and respecting cultural diversity in society.