Helping Dogs (Working Dogs)
Working Dogs Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
The book 'Helping Dogs (Working Dogs)' by Mary Ann Hoffman likely explores the various roles that working dogs play in assisting humans. It may cover topics such as the training and characteristics of different breeds of working dogs, including service dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The book might delve into the history of dogs in work, the bond between working dogs and their handlers, and the impact these dogs have on the communities they serve. It could also discuss the care, management, and retirement of working dogs, emphasizing the respect and appreciation these animals deserve for their service.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes dogs good helpers?
How do you feel when you see a dog helping someone?
Why is it important for working dogs to be trained?
Can you think of any other animals that help people? How do they help?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone when asking your child these questions to make them feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, such as a time they saw a service dog, or how they feel when they help someone.
Discuss the various roles of working dogs mentioned in the book to deepen the child’s understanding and appreciation for these animals.
After discussing, consider visiting a community helper like a police station or a fire station where working dogs may be present to provide a real-world connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The book showcases various ways dogs help humans, emphasizing the responsibility of training and caring for them.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking care of their pets consistently and the responsibilities involved in pet ownership.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Dogs working together with humans in different roles highlight the power of collaboration and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of working together to achieve common goals, be it in school projects or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: By seeing the world from the perspective of working dogs, children can learn to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop the ability to empathize with their peers and animals, fostering kinder interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The training and tasks performed by the working dogs demonstrate the importance of persistence and hard work.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to persevere through their own challenges, whether in learning new skills or overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for helpers
Explanation: The book illustrates the indispensable roles that working dogs play, providing a sense of appreciation for all helpers.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to recognize and value the contributions of individuals who assist them daily, from family members to community helpers.