How to Find Books and Videos About Dinosaurs

So you've got a youngster who's interested in dinosaurs. Use that interest to encourage him or her to learn more about dinosaurs through books and videos.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dinosaur Exploration Kit
• Dinosaur Model Kits
• Crayons
• Internet Access
• Pencils
• Drawing Supplies
• Pencils
• Dinosaur Videos
• Pencils
• Crayons

1. Expect to find two types of books and videos: nonfiction books and videos that deal with factual information about dinosaurs, and fiction books and videos that tell a story but may also convey some facts about dinosaurs.

2. Consider whether the child you're shopping for would prefer fiction or nonfiction.

3. Be aware that you'll need to select books and videos that are appropriate for the child's age. Preschoolers will do best with picture books; elementary school students with chapter books; and older children with more detailed books.

4. Start with your local library. Search for "dinosaur" in the children's card catalog or computer catalog. Choose some books and write down their call numbers. Browse the area you find them in to find other books that will interest your child.

5. Search online bookstores and video stores. Search generally for "dinosaur" or enter specific titles you saw at the library that you'd like to purchase.

6. Go to your local bookstore and browse the books it has about dinosaurs. Do the same at your local video or media store.

7. Select books and videos from the library or stores that you believe are most likely to interest the child you have in mind.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the books and watch the videos with your child. Encourage him or her to ask questions and discuss the material presented. Use these discussions to help point you toward other books or videos that he or she might appreciate.
• Have paper, crayons, colored pencils and modeling clay on hand. Your dinosaur enthusiasts will soon be drawing and making their own.