Scooter Goes to the Zoo
#3 in Adventures of Scooter Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Conversation, preservation, research, education, and recreation are highlights of a day spent at the local Zoo. Children’s knowledge of letter names and shapes forms a solid foundation for early reading success. Scooter Goes to the Zoo merges language fundamentals with vibrant wildlife imagery to ignite the curiosity of young minds and bring happiness to children around the world.
Discussion points
What was your favorite animal that Scooter saw at the zoo and why?
How do you think Scooter felt when he saw the elephants for the first time?
If you could ask any animal in the story a question, what would you ask and why?
What do you think we can do to help animals like the ones Scooter saw at the zoo?
If you were Scooter, which animal would you want to learn more about?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about zoos and what animals they expect Scooter to see.
Point out the expressions on Scooter’s face in different parts of the book to discuss his feelings about the zoo animals.
Encourage your child to imagine their own zoo adventure. Ask them what animals they would like to see and what questions they would ask those animals.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or animal from the book to reinforce memory and comprehension.
Use the story to introduce concepts of animal care and conservation, explaining why each is important in real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As Scooter interacts with various animals at the zoo, he learns to understand and appreciate their feelings and differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to appreciate diversity among their peers and showing respect towards others' feelings in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The book showcases Scooter's eagerness to learn about each animal, their habitats, and behaviors, encouraging an inquisitive mind.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore new topics, ask questions, and gain knowledge about the world around them whether at school or during family outings.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and care for animals
Explanation: Scooter demonstrates how to treat animals with care and respect, emphasizing their well-being and needs.
Real-World Application: This lesson reinforces the importance of being responsible and caring towards pets and wildlife, teaching children the value of kindness and stewardship over nature.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear with knowledge
Explanation: Scooter initially feels scared of some animals, but as he learns more about them, he overcomes his fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to address their own fears by seeking out information and understanding, turning fear into fascination and respect.
Example Lesson: Sharing experiences with others
Explanation: Scooter's visit is enriched by sharing his discoveries with his family, highlighting the joy of shared experiences.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to share their own discoveries and experiences with family and friends, which can enhance their communication skills and deepen their relationships.