Perico the parrot has something to say but apparently his timing is off and he’s speaking the wrong language! As each customer comes into the pet shop requesting a talking parrot, Perico attempts to imitate their expected lines–“Polly wants a cracker,” or”I am a pretty bird.” Just as the potential buyer begins to leave, Perico squawks out a reply in Spanish, “Agua,” “Mal,” or “Si.” The pet store owner, anxious to make a sale, says, “Wait! He’s talking.” The woman in the purple glasses is sure Perico has called out “opera” instead of “agua” and takes him on an ill-fated visit to the performance. The next morning, Perico is returned to the pet shop for the next customer to misinterpret “mal” for a desire to visit the “mall.” Each misunderstanding leads to an outrageous outing until just the right owner visits the pet shop. A perfect read-aloud for a class just learning Spanish or a bi-lingual class to spark a conversation about the mistakes we can make in trying to understand a language different from our own!
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2018 PAL Awards
Play on Words speech and language expert Sherry Artemenko recognizes exceptional toys, games and books that encourage language, spark fun and invite creative play.
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Video reviews of our PAL Award winners with tips on how to advance language through play • see PAL tips... ►
See more video reviews... ? Sherry, thanks for giving us back our son. We are so grateful for everything you did for Ben and our family. Not seeing you every week makes me feel that something is missing… but we look forward to a summertime walk! We miss you,
Nicole, mother of 2 year-old boy who was dismissed from therapyWestport, CTSherry, thank you so much for working with my girls for so long. Your kindness, thoughtfulness, insight and professionalism made our experience so meaningful. My husband and I appreciate all you have done for them. Let’s keep in touch. Thanks again.
Mother of 3 and 5 year-old girlsGreenwich, CTThank you Sherry! You are a BIG help and Max adores you.
Maria, mother of a 5 year-old boyFairfield, CT