Bear Wants to Sing
What’s inside...
A bear finds a ukulele in the woods and is inspired to write his own song. His friend Mouse is eager to hear it, but other animals in the forest also find musical inspiration and keep interrupting Bear's performance. When Bear finally gets a chance to perform, the lack of enthusiasm from the other animals leads him to give up on his music career. However, the kindness, empathy, and appreciation from his best friend Mouse show Bear that his art deserves recognition and can inspire others.
Age
3-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bear
Wolf
Turtle
Bird
Discussion points
What do you think Bear feels when he wants to sing but isn't sure if he can?
How do the other animals react to Bear’s singing? Why do you think they react that way?
Can you think of a time when you were nervous to try something new like Bear? What happened?
Why do you think it's important for Bear to keep trying to sing even when it's hard?
What does this story teach us about helping and supporting our friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask open-ended questions to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Relate the story to your child’s own experiences, asking if they've ever felt like Bear and what they did in that situation.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and encouragement, highlighting how Bear's friends support his singing.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene, helping them connect visually and emotionally with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In the story, Bear shows determination despite facing challenges in achieving his dream to sing. He doesn’t give up easily and keeps trying.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence in daily tasks and goals, understanding that challenges are part of any journey and can be overcome through resilience.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship and support
Explanation: Bear’s friends encourage and support his singing ambitions, highlighting how positive reinforcement from friends can be uplifting.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to support their peers and understand the significant impact their encouragement can have on others’ confidence and achievements.
Example Lesson: Expressing oneself creatively
Explanation: Bear wants to sing, showcasing his creative desire to express himself through music.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore and express their own creative interests, whether it's through singing, drawing, dancing, or any other form of art.
Example Lesson: Accepting and appreciating individual differences
Explanation: Though Bear’s singing isn’t perfect, his effort and enthusiasm are admired, teaching that individual differences should be celebrated.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace the unique traits and talents of others, promoting inclusivity and respect in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Building self-confidence
Explanation: Through the story, Bear gains confidence in his abilities as he practices and receives support, showing the impact of self-belief and practice.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of believing in themselves and the role of practice in building skills and confidence.