Have You Heard the Nesting Bird?
What’s inside...
Woodpecker calls from a tree, 'cuk-cuk-cuk.' Starling sings, 'whistle-ee-wee.' But have you heard the nesting bird? In this book, we hear all the different bird calls in counterpoint to the pervasive quiet of a mama bird waiting for her eggs to hatch. Fun and informative back matter takes the shape of an interview so that readers learn more right from the bird's bill. Ken Pak's lively illustrations, paired with Rita Gray's words, render a visual and sonorous picture book to be enjoyed by young naturalists. Now in paperback.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the birds might be saying to each other in their chirps?
Why do you think the nesting bird stays so quiet?
How do you feel when you hear different bird sounds?
What do you think it's like inside the bird’s nest?
Can you imagine what the baby birds are waiting for?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, take a moment to listen to any bird sounds outside and discuss what they might mean.
Encourage your child to describe the nest they imagine using sensory details like sight, touch, and smell.
As you read, pause to discuss the illustrations and ask how they match the words or add new ideas to the story.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing different bird nests or pretending to be birds communicating with each other.
Use the quiet moments in the book to discuss the importance of silence and listening.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Observation
Explanation: The story details the quiet observation of a nesting bird, emphasizing the importance of being patient and still to notice the small wonders of nature.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to slow down and observe nature closely, whether in a park, during a walk, or even in their own backyard, fostering a deeper appreciation and curiosity for the environment.
Example Lesson: Life Cycles
Explanation: Through the nesting bird, the book introduces the concept of animal life cycles, showing how birds build nests, lay eggs, and care for their young.
Real-World Application: Children can compare these stages to those of other animals and even humans, helping them understand the concept of growth and development in living beings.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The narrative encourages not disturbing the bird and her nest, teaching respect for wildlife and their natural habitats.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be considerate and protective of natural spaces and wildlife they encounter, promoting environmental stewardship from a young age.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book's format of questions and answers stimulates curiosity and encourages seeking knowledge by asking questions about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to ask more questions in their everyday life, enhancing their learning and understanding of the world around them.