Blue Sky Bluebird
What’s inside...
Follows a family of bluebirds from the completion of a nest at the beginning of spring through the migration of the parents and eight fledglings in autumn. One spring day when the ground is a carpet of green, a pair of bluebirds arrives at their summer home. Inside their nest box, the female weaves layers of coarse grass into a circle, then presses her body into the middle to make a cup. Throughout the season, the female lays eggs which hatch into chicks that are fed tirelessly by the parent birds. The chicks grow, learn to fly, and eventually help raise a new brood before migrating south for the winter.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the bluebird feels when it flies across the blue sky?
What do you like most about the story of the bluebird?
If you were a bluebird, where would you fly and why?
What can we learn from a bluebird's journey?
How does the sky change throughout the book and what does it mean for the bluebird?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions depicted in the book and relate them to their own feelings.
Ask your child to imagine their own adventures, similar to the bluebird's journey, to foster creativity and personal connection to the story.
Discuss the importance of persistence and courage as shown by the bluebird, linking these traits to real-life scenarios your child might face.
Utilize the illustrations in the book to enhance understanding and appreciation of the story, asking your child to describe what they see and how it relates to the text.
Reinforce the learning by revisiting favorite parts of the book, praising your child’s insights and observations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The bluebird in the story faces numerous challenges while trying to find a new home, but it never gives up. Its resilience is demonstrated through its continuous effort despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persevering in the face of difficulties, whether it's solving a tough math problem or learning a new skill in sports.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Helpfulness
Explanation: Other animals in the story assist the bluebird in its quest, showing kindness and understanding. This cooperation highlights the value of empathy and communal support.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to help others in need, whether it's sharing toys with siblings or helping a friend with homework.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the bluebird searches for a home, it explores various environments and adapts to different situations. This showcases its ability to adjust to new circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be flexible and adapt to changes, such as moving to a new school or dealing with a change in routine.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The detailed illustrations of natural settings and various flora and fauna inspire a love for the environment and teach the importance of caring for our surroundings.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore the natural world around them and understand the role they play in preserving it, which could include activities like recycling or planting a garden.