Understand the value of connecting animals and children
From family pets and wild animals to toys, stuffed animals, and media
images, animals are a central part of every child's landscape. This book
examines the reasons why children should interact and connect with real
animals, and it identifies the rich learning that results. You'll find
heaps of foundational support and practical ideas to create authentic
experiences that bring children and all kinds of species of animals
together--including many adaptations if live animals are not permitted
in your setting.
Connecting Animals and Children in Early Childhood
Examines the basic qualities that make animals so appealing to
children
Explains how animals impact children's cognitive, social-emotional, and
inter- and intrapersonal development and growth
Includes an overview of the many ways animals are present in children's
lives
Introduces authentic experiences with animals that are supportive of
children's understanding and learning, and respectful to both animals
and people
Provides real-life examples of how to bring animals into your classroom
with suggestions for planning, ideas for finding the right pet, and
resources for making experiences meaningful, relevant, and joyful for
children
Patty Born Selly is executive director of the National Center for
STEM Elementary Education at St. Catherine University in St. Paul,
Minnesota. As the founder of Small Wonders, an educational consulting
company offering services to schools, faith-based communities, and other
organizations, Patty has developed hundreds of classes to help programs
incorporate nature, science, and green education.
