Army Ant Parade
What’s inside...
An evocation of an army ant parade set in the rain forest. One morning there is a strange stillness in the forest. A few birds call. There is a rustling, like rain. Suddenly insects scurry into view. The army ants are coming! They swarm over the ground in a thick stream, searching for food. Antbirds follow them to eat the insects that flee from the swarm. Most animals escape the army ant attack, but one frog isn't so lucky: it becomes a meal. The hungry army ants move on, and soon the forest is quiet again. Simple, evocative text and vibrant illustrations capture the drama and excitement of an army ant parade.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the army ants work so well together during their parade?
How do the different ants contribute to the parade? Can you think of ways we work together like the ants?
Why do you think teamwork is important for the ants? How can we apply that lesson in our daily lives?
What was your favorite part of the parade and why?
If you could be one of the ants in the book, which one would you be and what role would you play in the parade?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book. Connect the story to real-life instances of teamwork and cooperation, either at home or school. Ask them to draw or describe their own parade with friends or family members as participants. This helps them think creatively and relate personally to the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The story of 'Army Ant Parade' showcases how the ants work together harmoniously to overcome obstacles and achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of collaborating and supporting each other in group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Problem Solving
Explanation: As the ants encounter challenges during their parade, they demonstrate resilience and creative problem-solving skills to navigate through.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face difficulties with determination and to think creatively to find solutions in daily life challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: The book highlights how ants, despite their differences in role and size, respect and accept each other, working towards a common purpose.
Real-World Application: This promotes empathy and acceptance among children, teaching them to value diversity in their peers and in their community.