The Bat Book
#2 of 4 in Conservation for Kids Series
on Goodreads (126)
What’s inside...
Go on an adventure in the shadows with award-winning author and illustrator Charlotte Milner in The Bat Book. Discover the importance of bats to our world, learn about their unique characteristics, and explore how they contribute to the environment by pollinating plants and controlling pests. This beautifully illustrated children's book educates young readers about the different types of bats, their habitats, and the threats they face. It also includes fun activities for kids to help protect bats, such as creating a bat-friendly garden. With its critical environmental message, The Bat Book encourages the protection of bats and is an essential resource for teaching children about these fascinating creatures and their role in our ecosystem.
Discussion points
Why do you think bats are important for our environment?
How do bats help farmers with their crops?
What did you learn about the different types of bats in the world?
How can we help protect bats and their habitats?
What was the most surprising fact you learned about bats from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by mentioning a fun fact about bats you found interesting in the book.
Ask your child to draw their favorite bat from the book and explain why they chose that specific one.
Encourage your child to think about how bats compare to birds, discussing their similarities and differences.
Discuss the illustrations in the book, asking which ones they liked best and why.
After reading, consider doing a small project like building a bat box to further explore the topic of bat conservation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Biodiversity
Explanation: Through engaging illustrations and facts, 'The Bat Book' teaches the crucial role bats play in the ecosystem, highlighting their necessity for pollination and pest control.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and protect various species in their local environment, understanding that every creature has an important role in nature.
Example Lesson: Conservation Awareness
Explanation: 'The Bat Book' addresses the threats bats face such as habitat loss and disease, and stresses the importance of conservation efforts to protect them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in or support environmental initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility towards wildlife conservation from a young age.
Example Lesson: Scientific Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book presents detailed information about different types of bats, their habitats, and behaviors, sparking curiosity and encouraging further exploration and learning about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore more about science and biology, potentially participating in related projects at school or local community groups.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Animals
Explanation: By dispelling myths and showcasing endearing facts about bats, the book helps children develop empathy towards these often misunderstood animals.
Real-World Application: This lesson promotes kindness and understanding towards all animals, influencing how children treat and think about animals they encounter.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The book challenges common misconceptions about bats, encouraging children to question stereotypes and think critically about where they get their information.
Real-World Application: Children learn to seek out factual information and make informed opinions, which is a valuable skill in navigating various aspects of life and education.