Winter Survival: Animal Hibernation, Migration, and Adaptation
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
This vibrant and educational book, now in its 2nd edition with improved illustrations and more animals, delves into the various survival strategies of animals during winter. Through engaging rhyming poetry and full-color illustrations, early readers will uncover the reasons behind the diverse behaviors of animals such as birds, squirrels, bears, and more as they migrate, hibernate, or adapt to the cold weather. With over 20 different animals featured, this book provides a detailed explanation of hibernation, migration, and adaptation. It is designed for preschool and elementary grade children, offering an enjoyable learning experience both at home and in the classroom.
Discussion points
Why do you think some animals hibernate during winter, while others migrate to warmer places?
Can you imagine what it would be like to adapt to a cold environment like some animals do?
What are some ways animals prepare for winter that surprised you the most?
If you could choose, would you prefer to hibernate, migrate, or adapt to winter? Why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the survival strategies of animals to their own preparations for winter, like wearing warmer clothes or spending more time indoors.
Use a globe or a map to trace the migration paths of animals discussed in the book, making it a visual and interactive experience.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite animal from the book using its winter survival strategy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The book explains how different animals adapt to harsh winter conditions through hibernation, migration, or developing other survival traits.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being adaptable in various situations, helping them to handle changes and challenges effectively in their everyday lives.
Example Lesson: Preparation
Explanation: Animals prepare for winter by gathering food or traveling to warmer regions, showcasing the importance of planning ahead.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop a habit of preparing for their tasks or future needs, such as packing their school bag the night before.
Example Lesson: Interdependence of ecosystems
Explanation: The story highlights how animals' survival strategies impact other creatures and the environment, demonstrating the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
Real-World Application: Children learn to understand how their actions can affect others, promoting a sense of responsibility towards maintaining a balanced ecosystem in their community.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Through the portrayal of animals that endure the winter, the book conveys a strong message of resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of persistence in overcoming difficulties they may face, such as dealing with a tough school subject or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Empathy for living beings
Explanation: The book presents the struggles animals face in winter, fostering empathy and respect for life.
Real-World Application: This can lead children to be more compassionate and kind towards animals and people who are experiencing hardships.