Baby Animal Names – A Matching Activity

Happy Mother’s Day!

In honor of moms everywhere, we have a special downloadable activity sheet today: “Baby Animal Names!”

When I was growing up, I was always enchanted by the special bond between animal moms and their babies. I was also delighted to learn that there are special names for many animal babies.

Did you know that a baby platypus is called a puggle? Or that a baby grouse is called a cheeper? Such fun words!

In this free downloadable activity, you and your child will match animal babies with their mommas. At the same time, your child will become familiar with names for baby animals that she may not have heard before. This exposure will help build your child’s vocabulary, thereby increasing her reading comprehension.

Match the Baby Animals with Their Mommas!

It’s a simple activity. First have your child cut out the animal cards and the Mother and Baby labels.

Place each card in the appropriate “Mother” or “Baby” group.

Then help the baby animals find their mommas. You can help your child build her vocabulary by reading and discussing the words together as she finds each match.

How Does This Activity Fit into an AAR lesson?

This matching activity is an example of the kind of vocabulary-building exercise that you’ll find in All About Reading.

“Baby Animal Names” is adapted from an activity included in All About Reading Level 4, Lesson 17. Download this lesson to see how we use activities to reinforce reading skills throughout the program.

Is your child hooked on learning baby animal names? Here are a few more word pairs you can use.

What are your or your child’s favorite baby animal names? Share in the comments below!