Are you hoping to introduce your Pre-K students to ostriches this year? Do you already have an assortment of stories about flightless birds in your classroom’s collection? If not, you may want to mull over the idea of obtaining one of the following books:
“Animals That Live in the Grasslands: Ostriches”
Want to open up your lesson plan with a rudimentary overview of an ostrich’s physical characteristics? Well then, I’d suggest picking up a copy of Therese Harasymiw’s book “Animals That Live in the Grasslands: Ostriches.” The book contains a handful of entertaining facts about the birds as well as a few color photos. Should you be unable to locate a copy, there are other similar books that you could try. Among them are Louise Spilsbury’s “A Day in the Life: Grassland Animals – Ostrich” and Ann Elwood’s “Ostriches and Other Ratites.”
“Even an Ostrich Needs a Nest: Where Birds Begin”
Although Irene Kelly’s book “Even an Ostrich Needs a Nest: Where Birds Begin” doesn’t solely focus on ostriches, it is still worthy of consideration. In my opinion, it will help teach the children about nest building. Thus, you could use the book as an introduction to a science segment or a nest related craft project. Some of the other birds mentioned in the book are penguins, robins and owls.
“How the Ostrich Got Its Long Neck: A Tale from the Akamba of Kenya”
Planning on teaching the kids about folktales too? If so, you may want to add Verna Aardema’s book “How the Ostrich Got Its Long Neck: A Tale from the Akamba of Kenya” to your collection. Its storyline involves a fabled interaction between a crocodile and an ostrich. You may want to consider pairing it with the author’s other book “The Lonely Lioness and the Ostrich Chicks.” It would also pair well with Marilyn Nelson’s “Ostrich and Lark.” The children are apt to find all three entertaining.
“Three Cheers for Ostrich!”
Francesca Simon’s “Three Cheers for Ostrich!” would be a cute book to read just for entertainment. Its storyline focuses on an ostrich that isn’t comfortable in his own feathers. By the end of the book, that feeling passes and he comes to realize his own self-worth.
Given its social message, you may want to consider pairing it with Stephen Cosgrove’s tome “Sniffles” and Ken Brown’s “Why Can’t I Fly?” Both books contain amusing illustrations and cute storylines. Cosgrove’s character has a penchant for storytelling and Brown’s character wants to explore the joys of flight.
“Ima and the Great Texas Ostrich Race”
Speaking of pure entertainment, you may want to think about reading Margaret McManis’ book “Ima and the Great Texas Ostrich Race” too. Based on my experience, the kids are apt to get a real kick out of hearing the story and looking at book’s illustrations. As the book’s title indicates, its storyline focuses on a girl that decides to enter a race. Instead of choosing a horse for the event, she selects an ostrich.
Source: Personal Experience
More from this contributor:
5 Super Valentine’s Day Games and Activities for Children
Bird Themed Games for Children’s Birthday Parties
Top 5 Ways to Feed the Birds in Winter
Bird Watching Tips for Beginners
