Astrid, The Au-Pair From Outer Space
Astrid and the Space Cadets Series
What’s inside...
Astrid, an au-pair from a distant planet, joins a human family, and together they embark on enchanting adventures. As Astrid adapts to Earth, her supernatural abilities lead to amusing yet heartwarming situations, strengthening the bonds of her newfound family. Meanwhile, Harry, a young boy from the family, feels initially suspicious about having an au-pair. However, he soon warms to Astrid, especially when she helps him deal with the school bully. Harry can't help but wonder about Astrid's mysterious background, as she seems unfamiliar with common earthly items and her suitcase exhibits unusual behavior.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Astrid feels being an au-pair from outer space? What challenges does she face?
If you were in the story, how would you help Astrid adjust to Earth?
What are some of the differences and similarities between Astrid’s world and ours?
Why do you think the family needed an au-pair from outer space? What special qualities does Astrid bring?
What would you do if you had a day to spend with Astrid? What activities would you plan?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your thoughts about Astrid and asking what your child found most interesting about her character. Encourage your child to imagine themselves in various scenarios within the story, enhancing their empathy and creativity. Use compliments to affirm your child’s responses, fostering a positive and open dialogue. Connect the themes of the book to real-life situations your child might encounter, helping them apply the story’s lessons. Always let your child express their ideas freely, and guide the discussion with gentle, thought-provoking prompts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Astrid, the au-pair from outer space, brings intriguing differences to her host family's everyday life, showcasing the beauty of diversity and the learning opportunities it presents.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect people from different cultures and backgrounds, promoting inclusiveness in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the book, Astrid teaches the children she cares for about the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and chores, demonstrating the impact of their behavior on others around them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be more accountable for their actions at home and school, fostering a sense of duty and reliability.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to Change
Explanation: Astrid's arrival and unconventional methods require the family to adapt to new situations, teaching them the value of flexibility in the face of change.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace changes in their surroundings and routine, helping them to thrive in new environments and situations.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Astrid often engages the children in creative problem-solving scenarios that enhance their critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these critical thinking skills to navigate challenges and obstacles in school and their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Learning through Fun
Explanation: The storytelling indicates that learning doesn't always have to be serious and rigid; fun and imaginative play can be very educational.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to engage in playful learning activities that stimulate their creativity and joy for learning.