Do You Really Want a Horse? (Do You Really Want a Pet?)
Do You Really Want A Pet? Series
What’s inside...
A horse (and the narrator) teach a young girl the responsibility--and the joys--of owning a horse. Includes Is. this pet right for me? quiz--Provided by publisher.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What responsibilities do you think come with owning a horse?
How do you think having a pet horse would change your daily routine?
What are some ways you could show a horse that you care for it?
If you were a horse, what kind of home would you like to have?
Why do you think the character in the book wants a horse?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use personal experiences or stories about pets to make the discussion more relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine what life would be like with a horse, discussing both fun activities and daily chores.
Ask your child to draw or describe the ideal home for a horse, bringing in elements from the book.
Discuss the emotions the character may feel in the book and relate them to your child's feelings towards responsibilities and care.
Highlight the importance of empathy and responsibility towards animals, encouraging your child to think about the welfare of the horse.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The book demonstrates the responsibilities involved in taking care of a horse, from feeding to grooming.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on more responsibilities at home, such as caring for a family pet or maintaining their own space.
Example Lesson: Research and Preparation
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of researching and preparing before making the decision to get a pet.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to investigate and prepare for their own projects or commitments, whether it's a school assignment or joining a new activity.
Example Lesson: Long-term Commitment
Explanation: It showcases that having a pet, especially a horse, is a long-term commitment that requires persistent effort and attention.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the value of commitment and perseverance in their personal pursuits and relationships.
Example Lesson: Realistic Expectations
Explanation: The narrative sets realistic expectations about the challenges and rewards of owning a pet.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to set realistic goals and have appropriate expectations for various aspects of life, from academics to personal goals.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Care
Explanation: By depicting the care a horse needs, the book encourages empathy and the nurturing side of children.
Real-World Application: This can translate into better interpersonal relationships as children learn to recognize and respond to the needs and feelings of others.