Meet a Veterinarian! (In Our Neighborhood)
#1 of 11 in In Our Neighborhood Series
What’s inside...
This book introduces readers to the role of veterinarians in their neighborhood. Join Emma and Theo on their adventures as they meet community helpers in their neighborhood! Theo is watching the class pet bunny when it starts acting funny—and now he and Emma are headed to the veterinary clinic to get it checked. Come along as Emma and Theo get a firsthand look at a veterinarian’s job. Join in the excitement as these fun-loving friends continue to meet a variety of new community helpers and learn the ins-and-outs of their very important jobs. Each story is told from the point of view of either Emma or Theo in an engaging narrative that combines fiction and nonfiction text. Beautiful illustrations and real-life photos contribute to the fun. Add in a detailed map, a Q&A with a community helper, as well as tips and tools, and you've got a series of books that kids won't want to put down!
Discussion points
What do you think a veterinarian does during their work day?
Why is it important for animals to have doctors like veterinarians?
How do you feel when you see animals being taken care of?
What kind of qualities do you think a good veterinarian should have?
If you were a veterinarian for a day, what animal would you like to help the most?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about veterinarians or if they’ve ever met one.
While reading, pause on pages with activities or tasks performed by the veterinarian and discuss the importance of each task.
Relate the story to any pets or animals your child is familiar with to make it more relatable and engaging.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of themselves as a veterinarian and explain which animal they would love to care for.
Discuss the feelings and emotions that different animals might experience during their visit to the vet, promoting empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: The book portrays the veterinarian caring for various animals, showing gentle and compassionate behavior.
Real-World Application: Children learn to treat animals with kindness and consider their feelings, fostering a nurturing attitude that extends to their everyday interactions with pets and wildlife.
Example Lesson: Responsibility in pet care
Explanation: The book highlights the routine tasks a veterinarian performs, such as check-ups and vaccinations, emphasizing the importance of regular pet care.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the dedication required to look after pets, encouraging them to take active roles in feeding, grooming, and monitoring the health of their pets.
Example Lesson: Science and curiosity
Explanation: Through the character of the veterinarian, the book explores various medical tools and techniques used in animal care, sparking curiosity about biology and medicine.
Real-World Application: This curiosity can lead children to explore more about the sciences, ask questions, and seek knowledge about how the world around them works, particularly in biological processes.
Example Lesson: Career exploration
Explanation: Presenting the day-to-day activities of a vet, the book opens up discussions about different career paths in animal care and veterinary science.
Real-World Application: Children can begin to consider and dream about their future careers, understanding there are diverse professions they can explore that align with their interests and passions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The veterinarian faces various challenges, such as diagnosing ailments, which require critical thinking and innovative solutions.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of thinking through problems and finding solutions, skills they can apply in school and other areas of life when faced with challenges.