Rhinos at Recess
#37 of 39 in The Magic Tree House Series
What’s inside...
In 'Rhinos at Recess,' Mary Pope Osborne introduces readers to a fantastic tale of adventure and friendship. When Jack and Annie discover a new spell in their magic treehouse, they are transported to the African savanna, where they find themselves amidst a playful group of rhino calves during recess. With the help of a local guide, they learn about rhino conservation efforts and the challenges these majestic creatures face in the wild. However, when poachers threaten the safety of their new friends, Jack and Annie must use their quick thinking and the magic of the treehouse to save the day. This engaging story not only entertains but also educates young readers about wildlife protection and the importance of taking care of our planet.
Discussion points
What do you think the rhinos were feeling during recess? Can you relate to their emotions?
Why is teamwork important when the rhinos play games? Can you think of a time when you worked as a team?
How did the rhinos solve their problems at recess? What would you have done in their situation?
What do you think makes recess special for the rhinos? What makes it special for you?
How do you think the story would change if it took place somewhere else, like a zoo?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own feelings about recess and relate them to the rhinos' experiences.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and ask your child about a time they had to work with others to achieve a goal.
Prompt your child to come up with alternative solutions to the rhinos' problems, fostering critical thinking.
Link the story's setting to your child’s experiences by comparing their recess activities with those in the book.
Explore creative thinking by asking how the story might change in a different setting, encouraging imagination.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Rhinos at Recess,' the characters work together to overcome obstacles during their playground adventures. This collaboration is key to their success in the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each member’s contribution.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various challenges that require creative thinking and problem-solving skills to navigate.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and develop solutions in their daily interactions, whether in resolving conflicts with peers or tackling difficult tasks.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of the natural world through the children's interaction with the rhinos and their environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and care for their environment, promoting activities like recycling, conserving water, or planting trees.
Example Lesson: The value of play
Explanation: ‘Rhinos at Recess’ highlights how play is crucial to learning and development, as the characters grow and learn about themselves during recess.
Real-World Application: This can remind parents and educators of the importance of playtime in a child's schedule, enhancing their social, emotional, and physical growth.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Characters in the book often face fearful situations, but they learn to overcome these fears with bravery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears, whether it’s trying out for a new sport, speaking in front of the class, or making a new friend.