Mama Mirabelle: Anybody Home?
National Geographic little kids Series
What’s inside...
Mama and the gang help two lost baby birds find their way home. To help the kids learn about animal homes, Mama's home movies show different habitats on the ground, in the sea, and in the sky. Finally, the little birds see somewhere familiar, and Mama knows just where to take them. These cliff swallows belong in muddy safety on the side of cliffs!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Baby Elephant felt when he found an empty home? Can you tell why?
What would you do if you were exploring different homes like Baby Elephant?
Why is each animal's home special? What makes your home special?
What did Baby Elephant learn about his friends’ homes?
How do you think knowing about where friends live can help us understand them better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts about the book’s illustrations to pique your child’s interest. Use expressive reading to bring the characters and homes to life. After reading, relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing their friends’ homes and what makes each one unique. Encourage them to draw their ideal home and explain their choices, linking back to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity
Explanation: Mama Mirabelle explores different animal habitats, teaching children about the diverse environments animals live in.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect the various cultures and living conditions in their community and around the world.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: The book encourages exploration as Mama Mirabelle and the young animals ask questions and discover new things about their homes.
Real-World Application: Fosters a sense of inquisitiveness in children, encouraging them to learn more about their surroundings and to actively ask questions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters face different challenges and work together to solve them, showing teamwork and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to think critically and collaborate with others to overcome obstacles in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: By showcasing various animal homes, the story highlights the need to protect these natural habitats from threats.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be mindful of their environment and promotes actions that support sustainability and conservation.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As they visit each animal's home, the characters learn about the unique challenges others face, fostering empathy.
Real-World Application: Helps children develop empathy by understanding and considering the feelings and perspectives of others in their interactions.