Moose and Magpie (Arbordale Collection)
What’s inside...
It isn't always easy being a moose but this young moose has a special, joke-telling friend to keep him company and to help him find his way. Join Moose, Magpie and some of their other animal friends as they frolic through a year of changes. Learn what the Liberty Bell and moose have in common or why moose cross the road. Laugh along with Moose and Magpie, and learn something while you are at it. The 'For Creative Minds' educational section includes: Is it for real?, Moose and birds, What do moose eat?, Match the moose body part to its adaptation, Moose life cycle, Moose antlers, and Moose fun facts.
Discussion points
What do you think Moose learned from his friendship with Magpie?
How do you think Moose felt when Magpie helped him? Have you ever been helped by a friend?
Why do you think the seasons changing was important in the story?
Can you think of ways Moose and Magpie are different? How do their differences help their friendship?
What new things would you like to explore, like Moose did in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to Moose's adventures and friendships. Ask them how they feel during similar experiences and listen attentively. Utilize the changing seasons mentioned in the book to discuss nature's cycles and changes. Highlight the importance of diverse friendships, like that of Moose and Magpie, to promote acceptance and learning from others. Finally, inspire curiosity about new experiences and knowledge, just like Moose explores in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Friendship and companionship
Explanation: In 'Moose and Magpie', Moose is often lonely until he meets Magpie, who becomes his friend. The story explores how their friendship develops and the joy and support they give each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of making and maintaining friendships to avoid loneliness, and how having friends can bring happiness and support in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Learning from others
Explanation: Throughout the story, Magpie teaches Moose many things, such as how to take care of himself and his surroundings. This mentorship aspect highlights how one can learn valuable life skills from others.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be open to learning from family members, teachers, and friends who have valuable experiences and knowledge to share.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: As Moose and Magpie interact with their environment, the narrative subtly teaches the reader about respecting and taking care of nature.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in environmentally friendly activities such as recycling, conserving water, or planting trees, thereby developing a sustainable relationship with the environment.
Example Lesson: Adapting to change
Explanation: Moose experiences various changes through different seasons and circumstances, learning to adapt with the help of his friend Magpie. The story conveys how change is a natural part of life.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to accept and adapt to changes in their own lives, such as moving to a new place, changing schools, or any other personal changes.