Bernard's Bath
What’s inside...
It's bath time, but little Bernard refuses to go near the water. His family tries various ways to make the bath enticing by adding bubble bath, a rubber ducky, and a toy boat, but Bernard still resists. Then, Papa, Mama, and Grandma all jump into the tub, playing and having fun, which finally convinces Bernard to join in. This gentle and humorous story by Joan Elizabeth Goodman, illustrated by Dominic Catalano, captures the challenges and joys of bath time for children who are hesitant.
Age
1-3
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bernard
Discussion points
How do you think Bernard felt when he first saw the bathtub? Can you remember a time you felt the same?
What are some ways Bernard tried to avoid his bath? Have you ever tried to avoid doing something?
Why do you think baths are important? How do you feel after taking one?
How did Bernard change by the end of the story? What do you think he learned about baths?
If you could talk to Bernard, what advice would you give him about trying new things?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about baths and relate them to Bernard’s experiences.
Discuss the importance of hygiene and personal care in a fun and relatable way, using Bernard’s story as a reference.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to enhance their imagination and anticipation skills.
After reading, engage in a role-play where your child can act as Bernard, exploring his emotions and decisions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Personal Hygiene
Explanation: Bernard's adventure revolves around his humorous reluctance and eventual delight in bath time, showing the transformation from dirty to clean.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the daily necessity of washing to stay healthy and feel good, mirroring Bernard’s experience in their own routine.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fears
Explanation: Bernard initially fears the bath but learns to enjoy it as he explores and plays. This pivotal moment demonstrates overcoming personal fears through positive experiences.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by facing their own fears, whether it’s trying new activities or making new friends, using small, guided steps to find joy in new experiences.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The story shows Bernard turning a routine bath into a fantastical sea adventure with his toys, emphasizing the power of imagination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their creativity to transform mundane tasks into exciting adventures, enhancing their cognitive development and making daily tasks enjoyable.
Example Lesson: Value of Routine
Explanation: Bernard's story highlights a regular bath time, emphasizing how routines can provide comfort and structure.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the benefits of maintaining routines to aid in their organizational skills and provide a sense of security.
Example Lesson: Listening to Guidance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bernard’s mother gently guides him to understand why baths are important, showcasing effective communication.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of listening to parents or guardians for advice and guidance, helping them navigate through various life lessons.