World Animal Day / Working Animals Discovery
Working Animals Discovery
Children research and present animals that help people, such as assistance dogs, sheepdogs, detection dogs and therapy animals, and may meet one if a local organisation can visit.
How to run it
- Invite a local assistance dog or working animal organisation to visit or share a short video, if possible.
- Give small groups a working animal to research using books, fact cards or a device.
- Have groups find out what the animal does, how it is trained and how it is cared for.
- Ask each group to make a fact poster and present it to the room.
- Talk about how to behave around a working animal, such as asking before patting.
You will need
- books or printed fact cards
- tablet or device (optional)
- poster paper
- markers
Make it easier or harderYounger children can draw the animal at work and say one fact; older children can write interview questions for a visitor.
SafetyIf an animal visits, check allergies and fears beforehand and follow the handler's instructions at all times.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4, Outcome 5Children research, organise and present information, building communication skills and respect for animals.
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