Making a game out of research

Make a trip to the local library. Not only is this a great way to get your kids to read, it's also an opportunity to find out everything about your pet. Even the children who can't read can find a children's book with animals and see what's around the pet ("Look! That dog is wearing a collar with his name on it! This kitty likes to sleep up high during the day! The hamster is running on a wheel!")

Send everyone forth to find a book about your pet. Encyclopedias are great, but you might have more luck finding a reference book specific to the pet your family is considering. Bring everyone to a table or form a circle on the floor and share some of the information everyone is gathering.

Here are a few "who can find the most" games you can try.
"Who can find the most books" about the pet
"Who can list the most facts" about particular pet traits
"Who can list the most items" needed for your pet
"Who can find the most info" that no one else knew

Spark that creative fire and think of your own!