Page 2 - Kind News Jr Parent Guide, Nov/Dec 2021

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Critter Clues FROM PAGE 7 activities!
Our mystery critter is the parakeet. Parakeets, part of the parrot family, are native
to Australia. The term parakeet describes a group of parrots that are small with long
tail feathers and slender bodies. In Australia these colorful birds live in flocks and
are also known as budgerigars, or “budgies” for short.
Parakeets are very popular pets, only surpassed in popularity by cats, dogs, and fish! They
are social, can be very easily trained, and often form strong bonds with their human compan-
ions. Parakeets are also excellent imitators. Some can learn many words and phrases, while
others may just mimic human sounds.
Although parakeets are sometimes seen as “easy” pets because of their small size and social
nature, they need specific care to stay happy and healthy. They need a balanced diet with parakeet
seed or pellets, chopped dark green and yellow vegetables, fruit, eggs, and cheese. Parakeets also need
mineral blocks and cuttlebones to make sure they get all of their nutrients. Cuttlebones also help prevent parakeets’ beaks from
becoming overgrown.
Parakeets need a well thought-out living environment. Provide a long cage with perches, chew toys, and other entertainment
such as ladders, swing toys, and toys with bells. They need ample time out of the cage every day and lots of interaction. Because
of their social nature, it is often best to get a pair of parakeets so they can socialize with each other in addition to their human
companions. If you get two parakeets, it’s best to get two males.
front page: redrover/carroll foster. this page: (critter clues) den trushtin/unsplash.
Parakeets are one of the many wild birds that are used in the illegal bird trade, which threatens many species of parrots and
has spurred the increase of wild bird breeding facilities. If you’re interested in adopting a parakeet, reach out to a rescue or
sanctuary that helps birds in need. Interested in volunteering instead? Reach out to your local rescue or sanctuary to learn how
you can be involved.

The Science of Learning Crossword FROM PAGE 6
A
1
P T
2 ACROSS DOWN
L T 3. To say something nice to 1. To pay _______ to someone is to
P R A I S E
3 someone like “Good job!” carefully notice things about them
Y N 4. To help someone learn 2. To do a fun game or activity
something new
T E A C H 6. Being sure of yourself and
4 5. To gain new knowledge
I what you can do
O 5 L 7. A strong friendship when
6 C O N F I D E N T people or animals trust each other
A
R
B O D
N
7

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