Dog (Do You Really Want a Pet?)
Do You Really Want A Pet? Series
What’s inside...
Several pet birds (and the narrator) teach a young boy the responsibility--and the joys--of owning a pet bird. Includes 'Is this pet right for me?' quiz. A mischievous dog (and the narrator) teach a young boy the responsibility—and the joys—of owning a dog. Includes 'Is this pet right for me?' quiz.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What responsibilities do you think a person has when they decide to get a pet?
How do you think having a dog as a pet would change a person’s daily routine?
Why is it important to consider different factors like space and time before getting a pet?
What are some ways you could show care and love to a pet dog?
If you were to get a dog, what qualities or characteristics would you look for in your pet?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about pets openly, and share your own experiences with pets to create a bonding moment.
Use the questions to guide a reflective conversation, encouraging your child to think critically about the responsibilities associated with pet ownership.
Highlight the emotional aspects of the book, such as the joy and companionship pets bring, to deepen your child's understanding of the human-animal bond.
Discuss the practical aspects mentioned in the book, like time management and space considerations, to instill a sense of responsibility in your child towards pet care.
Ask your child to imagine scenarios of having a pet, and discuss potential challenges and solutions, fostering problem-solving skills and empathy towards animals.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The book showcases the daily tasks involved in taking care of a dog, such as feeding, walking, and grooming.
Real-World Application: Children learn that having a pet requires regular commitment and care, which can help them develop a sense of responsibility towards living beings.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through the narrative, children see the world from a pet’s perspective, understanding the needs and feelings of a dog.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this understanding by recognizing and respecting the feelings and needs of others, both animals and humans.
Example Lesson: Decision Making
Explanation: The book outlines the considerations before getting a pet, like space and time commitment, guiding children through a decision-making process.
Real-World Application: This helps children approach decisions with thoughtful consideration, evaluating the pros and cons before making choices in real life.
Example Lesson: Companionship
Explanation: The story illustrates the friendship and bond that can develop between a child and a pet.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of companionship and how caring for someone can lead to a meaningful relationship.
Example Lesson: Consequences
Explanation: It details what can happen if a pet is not properly taken care of, such as a dog feeling sad or getting sick.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that their actions have consequences, encouraging them to think about the impact of their actions on others.