Maiasaura (Introducing Dinosaurs)
Introducing Dinosaurs Series
What’s inside...
Describes what is known about the physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, and life cycle of this plant-eating, duck-billed dinosaur. Maisaura's name means 'good mother lizard.' Find out why scientists believe these dinosaurs were such good moms.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Maiasaura dinosaurs were called 'good mother lizards'?
What differences can you spot between Maiasaura and other dinosaurs you know?
How do you think the Maiasaura's environment affected its behavior and survival?
What would you do if you were a Maiasaura for a day?
How do you think baby Maiasaura felt being protected in their nests?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation with a simple question about dinosaurs to pique your child’s interest before diving into deeper discussion about Maiasaura.
Encourage your child to think about how the characteristics of Maiasaura compare to modern animals, fostering a connection between past and present.
Use illustrations in the book to help your child visualize the Maiasaura’s habitat and lifestyle, sparking more detailed inquiries and thoughts.
Ask your child to imagine stories or scenarios involving Maiasaura, enhancing their engagement and creative thinking.
After reading, co-create a drawing or a small project about Maiasaura’s environment, reinforcing the learning and making the experience fun.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The book spotlights the Maiasaura dinosaurs, which are known for living in large, nurturing groups. It demonstrates how they work together to protect and raise their young.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of cooperating and working together with their peers or family members to achieve common goals and support each other.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Caring
Explanation: Through the nurturing behaviors of Maiasaura toward their offspring, the story teaches children the significance of caring for others.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop empathy by caring for their friends and family, understanding their feelings, and offering help when needed.
Example Lesson: Learning from the Past
Explanation: The book provides historical insights into the lives of dinosaurs, emphasizing the value of understanding history and ancient creatures.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore more about history and other scientific subjects, understanding that knowledge from the past can inform our present and future decisions.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The Maiasaura's ability to thrive in a changing environment is highlighted, showing how they adapted to different challenges.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to be flexible and adapt to new situations or environments, whether it's moving to a new place, adjusting to a new school, or dealing with any life changes.