Home in the Cave (Arbordale Collection)
#5 in Habitats, Physical & Behavioral Adaptation Series
What’s inside...
Baby Bat loves his cave home and never wants to leave. While practicing flapping his wings one night, he falls and Pluribus Packrat rescues him. They then explore the deepest, darkest corners of the cave where they meet amazing animals that don't need eyes to see or colors to hide from enemies. Baby Bat learns how important bats are to the cave habitat and how other cave-living critters rely on bats for food. Will Baby Bat finally venture out of the cave to help the other animals? The book was also awarded the Gellet Burgess Award in the Growing Up category.
Discussion points
How do you think Baby Bat felt when he was exploring the cave? What made him feel that way?
Can you name some of the cave animals that Baby Bat met? Why do you think they live in a cave?
What did Baby Bat learn about the importance of the cave ecosystem?
How did the other animals help Baby Bat when he was lost?
What do you think is the most interesting thing about caves after reading this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Baby Bat’s adventures and relate them to a time they tried something new. This fosters empathy and personal connection to the story.
Discuss the variety of animals living in the cave and their roles in the ecosystem. This helps children understand biodiversity and interdependence in nature.
Ask your child to imagine their own cave adventure. What would they see? Who would they meet? This boosts creativity and engagement with the book’s themes.
Point out the illustrations depicting different cave features and discuss their formation. This adds a scientific layer to your reading experience.
After reading, engage in a 'fact or fiction' discussion about caves, using information from the book. This encourages children to differentiate between imaginative and real-world content.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Home in the Cave', Baby Bat learns to collaborate with other cave-dwelling creatures, illustrating how teamwork can lead to better outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities at school or with friends, learning to work together to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Valuing Diversity
Explanation: The story highlights various animals living in the cave, each with unique abilities that contribute to their survival. This teaches children to appreciate and embrace differences.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and appreciate the diverse skills and backgrounds of people in their community, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Baby Bat's exploratory nature leads him to discover the important role bats play in the ecosystem, emphasizing the value of curiosity and learning.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their own interests and learn new things about the world around them, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding Ecosystems
Explanation: Through Baby Bat’s interactions, children learn about food chains and the importance of each species in maintaining the balance of their environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in everyday life by teaching children the importance of respecting and preserving nature.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: As Baby Bat overcomes his fear of flying outside the cave, the story conveys the message that facing fears is a part of growth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears, whether trying out a new activity or making new friends, understanding that it's a step towards personal development.