Allie McFerret's training has gone superbly.  Recently he attended
2 PreSchools and captured the hearts of 30 3-5 y.o's for a full 30-40
minutes.  The lesson plan consisted of 2 components (each reinforced
at least 3 separate times):
 
1) Safety with Animals: always ask an adult before approaching their
pet, stay quiet, move slow, let the animal sniff you before touching it,
never touch around eyes & mouths.  The children were giving a chance to
practice asking to pet an animal, then interact with Allie.
 
2) the Letter F: words that start with F
 
F is For Ferret, all Fuzzy and Fun
From his soft Furry tail to his sweet kissy tongue.
 
F is for Family, For Freedom and joy
For Frolicking, Franticly chasing a toy.
 
F is For Faithfully Forever yours
F is For Ferret, your Friend on all Fours.
 
Each child was given a "Certificate of Learning" with
a ferret coloring book page on the back. See
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/anthonycorlando/detail?.dir=8c98&.dnm=ffba.jpg
 
We were amazed how well Allie did with so many little hands around.  He
never opened his mouth, escaped to his FrontPack or under my kneeling
legs when they got too loud, ate snacks & did tricks on command for the
first time ever in front of others.  And the kids just loved him!
 
"Intelligence is like 4-wheel drive.  It allows you to get stuck in more
'remote' places."
 
~ Garrison Keillor ~
[Posted in FML issue 5057]