Baller Ina
on Goodreads (120)
What’s inside...
Swish! introduces readers to Ina, a graceful ballerina who also loves to play basketball. Ina excels both at the barre and on the court, showcasing her diverse talents and interests. With rhythmic rhymes, the picture book celebrates the multifaceted nature of children and encourages them to explore all their interests. Readers will cheer from the sidelines as Ina, with her signature ballet moves, helps lead her basketball team to victory.
Discussion points
How do you think Ina felt when she first played basketball?
What does teamwork mean to you, and how did Ina and her friends demonstrate it in the story?
Ina faced some challenges in the game. Can you describe a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it?
Why is it important to keep practicing something you love, like Ina did with basketball?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences related to the book's themes, such as a team sport you played or a challenge you overcame. This personal connection can make the discussion more relatable and engaging for your child. Ask open-ended questions that prompt your child to think critically and reflect on their own experiences and feelings. Encourage your child to draw parallels between their life and Ina’s experiences, fostering deeper understanding and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The protagonist, along with their friends, learns to work together to achieve a common goal during their sports tournament.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school during group projects or in sports, learning to collaborate and value each other's contributions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: The main character faces various hurdles but continuously strives to overcome them, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up easily in their pursuits, whether it be in academics, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of Practice
Explanation: Repeated practice sessions lead the protagonist to improve their skills significantly.
Real-World Application: Kids can see the value of regular practice to enhance their abilities in any field, fostering a habit of diligence and continuous improvement.
Example Lesson: Sportsmanship
Explanation: The book illustrates both winning and losing with grace, emphasizing respect for competitors.
Real-World Application: Children learn to handle wins and losses gracefully, respecting their peers and understanding the value of fair play.
Example Lesson: Setting Goals
Explanation: The story highlights how setting clear, achievable goals helps the protagonist move forward and measure success.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to set their own goals and work towards them systematically, boosting their motivation and sense of accomplishment.