A Place for Nicholas (Green Light Readers: Start the Engine! Reading with Help: Level 2)
Green Light Readers Level 1 Series
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Everywhere Nicholas goes, someone in his busy, noisy family is already there. All he wants is a special place of his own. Luckily his little brother, Jeff, has an idea to help him find the perfect spot just for him.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nicholas
Discussion points
How do you think Nicholas felt when he found his special place? Can you think of a time you felt the same way?
Why is it important to have a place where you feel safe and happy?
What are some ways Nicholas could share his special place with his friends?
How do you think the story would change if Nicholas didn’t find his place?
Can you imagine a new adventure for Nicholas? What would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences with those of Nicholas, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Discuss the importance of having a personal space where one feels secure and joyful, and ask your child to describe or draw their own special place.
Use the questions to spark ideas for creative storytelling or role-playing games, where your child can invent further adventures for Nicholas.
Highlight the emotions depicted in the story to help your child learn to express their own feelings about places and spaces.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Empathy
Explanation: In 'A Place for Nicholas,' the story highlights how Nicholas finds his unique spot in his group, teaching children to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of their friends and peers in school and playground settings.
Example Lesson: Value of Persistence
Explanation: Nicholas' journey to finding his own place despite challenges emphasizes the value of persistence. The narrative demonstrates that despite initial setbacks, steadfastness leads to fulfillment.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to keep trying in their own tasks, whether it be learning a new skill or making new friends, even when it seems difficult initially.
Example Lesson: Significance of Belonging
Explanation: The book underscores the theme of belonging as Nicholas finds a space where he fits perfectly. This helps in reinforcing the concept of community and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to create inclusive environments in their interactions, fostering a sense of community and support amongst their peers.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: Nicholas uses creative thinking to find his place, thereby teaching children that sometimes unconventional methods can solve problems effectively.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creative thinking to overcome obstacles in school projects or in resolving conflicts with others.