Us, Them and Our Surprising Similarities

Us and Them section in Champak explores the connection between the natural world and human life. Telling a child that Siberian Cranes love to greet their friends with loud, excited calls when they meet helps the child easily relate it to the happiness they feel when meeting their own friends. When your child knows that ravens are smart enough to save twigs and food for later use, something clicks and they instantly connect. Whether it is an insect, an animal, a plant, a flower, a tree or even a leaf, every topic is extensively researched.  

From the weird laughs of a hyena and the problem-solving intelligence of ravens, to the unique teeth of a parrotfish or the spectacular dives of a penguin, we show children that the wild world isn't so wild after all. It’s just like them. Connecting children with nature helps them grow, think and behave. This simple shift from feeling ‘separate’ to feeling ‘connected’ changes everything.

As we explore the world of squirrels. Just like we build a comfortable home for our family, squirrels are clever builders too. They are the only animals who build nests. Their nests, called dreys, are tucked up in trees to keep young ones safe. Sometimes, they build nests inside tree hollows. Female squirrels build nests for their babies. 

Image credits: Flickr

Read more about the connection between nature and humans in the 'Us and Them' section in Champak.