The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History has a spectacular virtual tour of its exhibits – which include many prehistoric fossils and recreations of dinosaurs. When Max visits the museum, he is so entranced by the T-Rex that the exhibit specialist, Dinosaur Dora, suggests that he write a letter to the therapod and ask him some questions. So begins an amusing correspondence, as Max eventually wins the Tyrannosaurus over with his enthusiasm and friendship... Lesson 1 - About Dinosaurs and museums - hook and grab for book ( MP4 of moving T Rex and sounds provided) The unique aspect of the book, though, is also the same thing that makes it not appropriate for all children. I wouldn’t recommend using Dear Dinosaur—either in a classroom library or home setting—with children younger than 4. The risk of tearing out a letter or postcard is just too great. But if you have a 4 year and older kiddo that loves dinosaurs or need a gift for a dino-crazed kidlet, this is the book for you!

Read the story aloud to your child, reading the words in bold louder and pointing one or two of these out as you do. Children can help by opening the letters and cards. Pause to talk about the story or illustrations if your child wants to. Join in

Keep in touch

Dinosaur Multiples Game - Kids will love this interactive dinosaur game, which tests their Maths skills. Use it at school or home on an interactive whiteboard or computer. One way: They’re safe! Many dinosaurs, like Tyrannosaurus Rex, were fierce and carnivorous. Take a look around. See any? No! They’re extinct! And children know there are no living dinosaurs anywhere on Earth. They know they only see their remains in museums or likenesses on screens. It frees their imaginations to, safely, run wild with T. Rex without fear of actually coming face-to-face with one. The unique aspect about this book, having actual letters (or cards or postcards) for kiddos to open, is a fantastic idea. This interactive aspect is sure to keep a child’s attention. Whether a teacher or parent, finding a book with a good story AND an interactive component guarantees a hit!

Perhaps you know of a particular little person who poses a challenge to your child. Use the book as an example to brainstorm ways to make that relationship better. BBC Teach has a useful set of videos and resources to support teaching a dinosaur topic in EYFS, KS1 and KS2. The 1 st letter Max receives from T-Rex is far from friendly! Little by little, Max’s genuine caring and kindness ultimately lay the foundation for true friendship. Friendships are dynamic–they have ups and downs. Knowing how to make, and be a friend, is an important skill. One your child will carry past the prehistoric-age obsession, into the present and beyond!

Curriculum

All children are obsessed with dinosaurs some time during their early childhood years. Whether it’s during their older toddler or preschool years or more into their 1 st or 2 nd years of elementary school, dinosaurs take up a lot of their time, energy and focus. Children could make a set of dinosaur ‘did you know?’ cards. Using facts from the story and from more things you find out about, T-Rex, Compsognathus or any other dinosaur (see links below). They could try out their cards on members of the family or friends. Make a dinosaur museum Find out more Find out more about the Compsognathus Find out more about the Tyrranosaurus Rex For more information on dinosaurs see here Read Gorilla Loves Vanilla, another story by this picturebook duo Find out more about author Chae Strathie here Find out more about illustrator Nicola O’Byrne Titles include Open Very Carefully, a book with bite Keep your children entertained on rainy days or when you're out and about with this fantastic dinosaur-themed activity booklet. Features lots of different games and activities, including mazes, colouring, drawing and writing. Paleontologists have proven T. Rex was ruthless in their predatory ways. It could be said they were the originators of antisocial behavior! It also makes T.Rex a perfect character to use to talk about how to be, or make, a friend!