If You Could Talk About Animals

Talking to children is so much fun! Even the most every day things can be fascinating to a child. Listening to excited, curious children talk and being able to engage with them is not only fun but important for development. Talking with young children helps introduce them to new sounds and vocabulary. Plus, it shows them you care when you take time to listen.

This summer, we’re talking about animals as part of the Summer Learning Challenge, Explore and Roar. Try these books that will get you and your child talking about animals.

If your child isn’t talking yet, it’s still important to talk to them. Encourage them to make sounds with Bunny's Noisy Book which explores many noises that animals make.  You and your child can make these noises together!

Did you know that sloths actually move slower than snails? Chickens Don't Fly is chock full of interesting animal facts that will have you and your child talking and thinking about the wide world of animals.

A classic book about the difference between animals is Fish Is Fish. When fish’s friend tadpole grows up and leaves the pond, fish wants to see the rest of the world. Fish learns he can't live outside of the pond because he is different from his friend. This beautiful story of friendship is a great way to start talking about characteristics that make animals different. Keep the conversation going by comparing animal sizes using a variety of household materials.

What is your child interested in talking about this summer?

Rahm’s Readers is in partnership with Chicago Park District, Chicago Public Schools, The Anti-Cruelty Society of Chicago, Brookfield Zoo/Chicago Zoological Society, Lincoln Park Zoo, the Museum of Science and Industry and Chicago City of Learning.

Rahm’s Readers is made possible by The James & Madeleine McMullan Foundation, Cubs Care, Comcast, Dr. Scholl Foundation, CPL Foundation Junior Board, Helen M. Harrison Foundation, Macys, Peoples Gas, Robert R. McCormick Foundation, ComEd, R.R. Donnelley, The Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust, Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation, Verizon and RPM Advertising through the Chicago Public Library Foundation.