Montessorians love animals, right? Classroom pets are a part of every authentic environment and not just because they provide one more practical life activity. These creatures are there to harbor in the child an empathy and appreciation for other inhabitants of the earth. Experiences in respect and care for pets give a child dividends that are immeasurable. This tenet holds true even more so in the home environment. Some of my writing projects focus on the glorious experiences (maybe an overstatement) of children and their animal friends. Have you noticed how the animal world has quite a lively presence of late in the world of children's literature and film? While I've been working on a collaboration with my artist father about the joys of a household full of pets I have come across so many examples. Perhaps I'm more attuned to what's popular right now or perhaps others are becoming more aware of the special bond between children and pets. There are even several new books about the animal human connection for adults. Secret lives...? I think we all want in on a bit of that.
On the nightstand:
A Walk in the Animal Kingdom
by Jerry Dennis, drawings by Glenn Wolf, Big Maple Press
Are We Smart Enough to Know How Smart Animals Are?
by Frans de Waal, WW Norton
On the school bookshelf:
How to Raise a Wild Child
by Scott Sampson
What Pet Should I Get?
by Dr. Seuss
There's a Hedgehog in the Hallway
by Megan Ray Durkin, illustrations by
Ken Ray
Sir David Attenborough, the great naturalist and BBC wildlife presenter, has often been asked, "How did you become interested in animals?" His response was always the same: "How on Earth did you lose your interest in them?"--Scott Sampson from
How to Raise a Wild Child.
How to Raise a Wild Child
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