A New First Day (1)
#1 in Elena Grant Adventures Series
What’s inside...
Cindy, the main character, is faced with her new reality due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She encounters new challenges and disappointments as she enters her classroom with curiosity and skepticism. Initially, Cindy is frustrated by the changes brought about by the pandemic. However, as time passes, she begins to adapt and finds joy and excitement amid her new normal.
Discussion points
How did Ella feel on her first day of school, and have you ever felt the same way?
What are some ways Ella tried to make her new situation better?
Why is it important to try to make friends, even when you're feeling scared or alone?
How did Ella’s mom help her feel better about going to school?
What would you do if you were in Ella's shoes on your first day at a new school?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences related to starting something new, like a school or a hobby. This personal story can help your child feel more comfortable and understood. Emphasize the importance of empathy by discussing how Ella might have felt in various scenarios throughout the book. Encourage your child to think about the feelings of others and how they might help or support someone in a similar situation. Use the book’s illustrations to guide the discussion, asking your child to describe what they see and how it relates to the story. This can help deepen their understanding and connection to the story. Finish the conversation by asking your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios to enhance their problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The protagonist faces a sudden change in her routine when she starts a new school. Throughout the narrative, she learns to adapt and find comfort in her new environment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that change is a part of life and finding positive aspects in new experiences, whether it's moving to a new place, switching schools, or meeting new people.
Example Lesson: Building Resilience
Explanation: As the main character navigates challenges in her new school, she displays resilience by solving problems and making new friends, despite initial setbacks.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that encountering obstacles is normal, and overcoming them is possible through persistence and a positive attitude.
Example Lesson: Developing Empathy
Explanation: The book portrays different characters who are also adjusting to changes, encouraging the protagonist to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be empathetic by recognizing emotions in others and offering support or friendship, which is crucial in developing social skills.
Example Lesson: Valuing Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, the importance of making and maintaining friendships is highlighted as the protagonist finds peers who help ease her transition.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value friendships and understand the role of friends in supporting and enriching our lives, especially during transitions.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: The protagonist shows courage by attending a new school despite her fears and uncertainties, which ultimately leads to positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their own fears and embrace new opportunities that may initially seem daunting but have the potential for growth.