Juna and Appa

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Talk with students about why they think that Juna meets such interesting animal dads while she’s questing to find the missing jacket. Have them discuss the characteristics of the animal dads and which of those characteristics they believe that Appa also has.

Then ask students to think of a special person in their life, such as a parent, and imagine what animal would represent them. What characteristics or traits does this animal have in common with your special person? Have students draw that animal’s habitat and let them take turns guessing which animal it is that lives in that habitat. Once students guess (or give up), have each artist add a picture of their special person into their habitat picture and explain why they think that animal is similar to the person in their life.

Questions for Discussion or Reflective Writing

1. The appa frog says, “Parents show love in lots of different ways.” What is your favorite way to be shown love? What ways do you show love and care to those around you (including family, friends, and classmates)?
2. Why does Juna like spending time with Appa at work? How do you help or how could you help your family? What about helping others strengthens your relationship with them?
3. Do people in your family ever get worried? How does learning about other people’s families help you understand your own family? What makes your family unique?
4. “‘Shouting never helps anyone understand better,’ Juna said.” Do you think there are times when it does? How have you learned to communicate more effectively? How does the way you communicate contribute to how well you communicate?

Related Resources

Teacher’s Guide for Juna and Appa from Lee & Low

Animal Dads Gallery from National Geographic Kids