The Amazing Cat Family

The Amazing Cat Family is an Animal Based Curriculum of the RUFF Program. The book is 133 pages and takes a comprehensive look at the entire cat family with emphasis on cultural use science biology history genetics and geography. Each species is noted with Navajo names. R.U.F.F. is an acronym that stands for Reservations' Unwanted Four-Footed Friends organized for establishing homes for the unwanted and neglected animals on the Navajo Reservation. Rescued animals went into classrooms to help teach the children about animal behavior care and health but the animals ended up helping the kids by extrapolating expressions of emotions which would otherwise be harbored or unexpressed by the child. It incorporated self-esteem where all else had failed. Using a natural catalyst puppies and kittens to teach responsible behavior proved to be extremely effective. Teacher nominated this curriculum won 1st place Golden Bell Award from the ASBA as the best new innovative curriculum in 1996. www.ruffprogram.com