BUTTERBALL'S Christmas Surprise (Butterball the Poodle Book 3)
#3 of 3 in Butterball The Poodle Series
What’s inside...
Butterball the Poodle is excited for Christmas and is helping to prepare for the festivities. She is especially intrigued by the shiny balls on the Christmas tree, and she can't stop thinking about them. As the story unfolds, the reader is left to wonder whether Butterball will make a mistake due to her fascination with the decorations. The story follows Butterball's adventures, including a visit to the poodle groomer, and concludes with interactive questions for the readers. Additionally, there is a hidden fun activity where readers can look and find 12 Christmas candy canes throughout the story.
Discussion points
What do you think Butterball felt when she discovered the Christmas surprise?
Why is it important to give and receive gifts during Christmas?
How do you think Butterball's actions affected the other characters?
Can you imagine a different ending for the story? What would it be?
What did you learn from Butterball's Christmas adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story by relating it to their own experiences with surprises or gifts.
Discuss the values of generosity and kindness portrayed in the book, and ask your child how they can apply these values in their own life.
As you read, pause at key moments to predict what might happen next, helping your child to actively engage with the plot and think critically.
Use expressions and voice modulation to make the story more exciting and hold your child’s attention, making the reading session interactive and lively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and sharing
Explanation: In the story, Butterball demonstrates kindness by sharing her Christmas treats with other dogs who don't have any.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of sharing with others who may not have as much, fostering a spirit of generosity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Butterball experiences happiness by giving away some of her favorite treats, showing that giving can often feel better than receiving.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by finding ways to give to others, whether through sharing toys or doing kind acts for family and friends.
Example Lesson: Overcoming jealousy
Explanation: Butterball initially feels jealous of other dogs but learns to overcome it by focusing on the spirit of the season.
Real-World Application: This teaches children how to handle feelings of envy and turn them into positive actions, which is crucial for their emotional development.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the friendships Butterball has with other dogs help her learn and grow.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how these relationships can provide support and joy.
Example Lesson: Understanding different perspectives
Explanation: Butterball learns to see things from the perspectives of the other dogs, which helps her understand their actions and reactions better.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children grasp the importance of empathy and considering other people’s feelings and viewpoints in everyday life.