Youth Group Workshop

An Introduction to Parrots
Workshop Length:    60 Minutes (customized to your specific needs)

Introduction:

This general workshop is suitable for groups of children 5 years of age and above, such as Scouts, Guides, Explorers, summer camps, after-school science clubs, etc. Designed for up to 35 participants, each session typically lasts approximately 60 minutes and uses a highly interactive format that makes learning both interesting and fun.

Please note that the content of your group's workshop can be customized at no cost - just let us know about your specific needs at the time of booking.

Overview:

The participants will be provided with a very brief overview of the workshop and introduced to the two birds. Then, the following topics will be covered:

  • Using a map and photos, we will begin by identifying the places in the world where wild parrots can be found.

  • Next, we will examine what parrots eat and compare their diets to our own. We will watch one of the parrots as they eat, observing the function of the beak and how they use their feet to hold and manipulate food.

  • To demonstrate the power of a Hyacinth Macaw's beak, the participants will examine pieces of steel that were bent by this bird. The participants will have the opportunity to match their strength against that of the bird by trying to bend the steel themselves.

  • Each participant will examine and handle different types of feathers. For ages 9+, magnifying glasses will be used to get an "up close" look. We will then watch a short video clip showing parrots in flight and caring for their feathers.

  • In the next section of the workshop, we will turn our attention to eggs and nests. Using photos and real eggs, we will learn how parrots hatch and grow, and we will compare the sizes of eggs from different types of birds.

  • We will talk about keeping parrots as pets, placing an emphasis on the importance of providing proper care and attention for these remarkable creatures.

  • The final portion of the workshop will focus on what we can do to help conserve parrots in the wild.

  • After briefly reviewing and summarizing key learning points from the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to ask any additional questions they might have.

 
 
 
 
 
 

 
    Note: Leaders will be provided with a variety of post-workshop materials, as well as suggestions for additional learning activities.        
    Copyright © 2008 Bluebird Learning.  All rights reserved.