The National Wildlife Foundation puts out Ranger Rick Magazine for children ages 7 and older to continue the tradition began with Your Big Backyard, designed for children younger. When you subscribe to Ranger Rick, you get twelve issues, one a month for a year, for the price of $19.95, and right now, when your subscription is paid in full, you get a free camera as a thank-you gift. You can also receive a junior membership in the National Wildlife Federation.
Using the September 2006 issue, let’s take a closer look at this magazine.
Right inside, we see a picture of a cute dog-like animal, but he’s not a dog. He gives us clues as to what he is, and then tells us that we can write our guess down on a postcard and mail it in. Those who guess correctly are entered in a contest to get a great prize. What a fun way to learn more about new and different animals.
On the next few pages, we read an article about different kinds of horns and antlers worn by members of the animal kingdom. There are pictures of a muskox, bighorn sheep, hartebeest, ibex, and a Scottish highland cow. Some of these animals I never knew existed. We then learn the difference between horns and antlers, and see what they are used for. Then we read about rhinos and other horned creatures. This was a fascinating feature.
Then we move in to a section called Ask Ranger Rick, where children can write in with their animal questions or share their experiences with the animal kingdom.
Then we read a fiction story called “Trouble at the Dinosaur Café,” about the disputes that can arise between meat eaters and leaf eaters. It’s not easy keeping everyone fed and happy!
Now we see another nonfiction article about topiary, and how different techniques can make bushes look like animals.
What a fabulous supplement to your child’s exploration of the scientific world. To learn more about Ranger Rick and the other products offered by the National Wildlife Federation, click here.
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