Kindness Kit #5: Caring for Animals
Read the following Book(s) with your child(ren).
After reading each story, use the following questions as a jumping off point to begin a family conversation. you may also proceed to our “Talking Tips” page to help you further facilitate your discussion.
Book 1: Ladybug Girl and the Rescue Dogs by David Soman and Jacky Davis
What does Ladybug Girl want to do at first to help the dogs? Why does her mom tell her that they can’t take any of the dogs home? (Talk about how it actually is an act of kindness in their case to NOT adopt the dog, because their home would not be a good fit for additional pets. We should only adopt animals when we are sure we can provide them with the best environment.)
In what other ways is Ladybug Girl able to help? Why is each one of those tasks so important?
Notice how ladybug girl touches the animals gently and carefully. Why do we need to be so gentle with animals?
Book 2: May I Pet Your Dog? by Stephanie Calmenson, Illustrated by Jan Ormerod
If you see a dog that you would like to pet, what is the first thing you should do?
If the owner says, “Yes,” what is the next step?
How do you know if a dog is happy? What are some signs they might be mad or scared?
How do you pet a dog? How would you scratch its back?
Should you go near a dog in a car or truck?
Should you go near a dog without an owner?
What are some things you should never do around a dog?
If you’re afraid, what should you do around a dog?
Book 3: A Boy and a Jaguar by Alan Rabinowitz (Author), illustrated by Catia Chien
How do animals help the boy?
How does the boy end up helping animals?
What does he promise his pets and the jaguar at the zoo?
What have others done to harm jaguars?