Squirrels and Their Nests
Animal homes Series
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Some animals build their homes out of grass and twigs, while others make burrows in the soil. This series of colourful, easy-to-read books welcome readers into the homes of a variety of animals. Simple text and photographs illustrate squirrels and their nests.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-6
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think squirrels build nests?
What materials would you use to build a nest and why?
How do you think the squirrels feel when they are in their nests?
Can you imagine what it would be like to live in a tree? What would you see around you?
What can we do to help protect the homes of squirrels in nature?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about squirrels and nests to activate prior knowledge.
While reading, pause at the illustrations and ask your child to describe what they see, boosting observation skills.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing times when they’ve built something or created a cozy space.
Encourage empathy by discussing how the squirrels might feel in various scenarios within the book.
After reading, consider a walk outside to spot squirrel nests or similar animal homes, turning reading into real-world discovery.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The story showcases how squirrels work together to build nests, gathering materials and constructing them as a group.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied in group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Squirrels in the book are depicted taking care of their nests and ensuring they are safe from predators, highlighting the importance of being responsible for one's own space.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to take care of their personal belongings and their own spaces, such as their room or desk at school.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The book illustrates how squirrels adapt to different seasons by altering their nest-building techniques, using materials that suit the weather conditions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to different situations and environments, be it adjusting to a new grade in school or dealing with changes in family dynamics.
Example Lesson: Ecological awareness
Explanation: Through storytelling, the book educates on the roles that squirrels play in ecosystems, such as aiding in seed dispersion.
Real-World Application: This can heighten a child’s appreciation and care for nature, encouraging activities like planting trees or cleaning up parks.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The narrative covers challenges squirrels face, like predators or harsh weather, and the innovative ways they tackle these challenges to protect their nests.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in overcoming personal challenges, such as resolving conflicts with peers or finding ways to learn new concepts.