If Animals Went to Work
#3 of 9 in If Animals Kissed Good Night Series
What’s inside...
From creators Ann Whitford Paul and David Walker of the If Animals Kissed Good Night series, comes another adorable picture book that reimagines animals as community helpers, such as doctors, teachers, librarians, and firefighters. This book explores the roles animals might take on if they went to work, with examples like a mail carrier Kangaroo, a librarian Owl, and a construction-warning Snake. It highlights the unique ways each animal contributes to their community, making it a charming addition to the bestselling series. The series includes titles like If Animals Said I Love You, If Animals Celebrated Christmas, and more. This delightful picture book is a must-have for any nursery.
Discussion points
If you could choose any animal from this book to be your work buddy, which one would it be and why?
How do you think the animals feel about going to work in the story? What clues in the book gave you that idea?
What kind of jobs do the animals have in the book? Can you think of any other jobs that would be funny for animals to do?
If you were an animal in this book, which job would you like to have and how would you help your coworkers?
How do the animals use their unique abilities to do their jobs? Can you think of skills you have that help you at school or at home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to think deeply about the story and relate it to their own experiences.
Use the illustrations in the book to discuss what is happening. Point out expressions, activities and the unique aspects of each animal.
Relate the story to your child’s life by discussing what jobs family members do, and how everyone has unique roles and abilities.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or an additional 'If Animals Went to Work' scenario to foster creativity.
Discuss the importance of teamwork as shown in the book, and relate it to playing or working together with friends and family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'If Animals Went to Work', animals of different species collaborate to solve problems and carry out tasks, teaching the importance of working together.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in play, learning to cooperate with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: The animals use creative methods to accomplish their tasks, showcasing the value of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use imaginative thinking in their own lives, whether in academics, during play, or in everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Appreciating Diversity
Explanation: Different animals with unique abilities and traits come together in the story, emphasizing the strength found in diversity.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to appreciate the different qualities in people around them and understand that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Work Ethic
Explanation: The animals take on different roles that contribute to their community, illustrating the importance of a strong work ethic and being responsible.
Real-World Application: Children can mirror this behavior by taking on small responsibilities at home or in school, understanding that their contributions are important.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Helping Others
Explanation: As the animals help each other in their tasks, the story highlights the happiness that comes from helping and supporting others.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to offer help to family and friends, cultivating a sense of fulfillment and community.