Calamity's Christmas
#3 in Calamity Series
What’s inside...
This children's story tells the tale of a little dog named Calamity Jane who gets into big trouble on Christmas Eve after following bad advice from her cat friend, Sneakers. Despite her best intentions, Calamity rips open all the presents under the tree, creating a mess. In her attempts to fix it, she only makes it worse. Fortunately, with the support of her loving grandmother, most calamities can be resolved. The story reflects the love and care that can solve problems, inspired by the author Meg Bolton Scott's own experiences with her rescued dog Calamity Jane and her volunteer work with the SPCA.
Discussion points
What do you think Calamity learned about the true spirit of Christmas in the story?
How did Calamity's feelings change throughout the book and why do you think they changed?
If you were in Calamity's place, how would you have helped to solve the problems that arose?
What does this story teach us about friendship and kindness during the holiday season?
Can you think of a time when you felt like Calamity and how you handled the situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Calamity's experiences, relating them to their own life.
Discuss the importance of kindness and empathy, taking examples from the book to illustrate these values.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings to the story, encouraging creativity and deeper understanding of the character's motives and emotions.
Use the book’s illustrations to discuss the setting and mood of various scenes, enhancing visual literacy skills.
Highlight moments of problem-solving in the book and relate them to everyday challenges your child might face, fostering resilience and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'Calamity's Christmas,' the main character, Calamity, learns to understand and share the feelings of another character who is less fortunate.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to recognize when someone else is feeling sad or needs help, and by offering their support or kindness.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Calamity faces various challenges but continues to try her best to have a joyful holiday, teaching kids the importance of not giving up.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to keep trying even when things are difficult, whether it's completing a tough homework assignment or mastering a new skill in sports.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and togetherness
Explanation: The story highlights the celebrations with family and friends, underscoring how gatherings can strengthen bonds.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value and cherish the time spent with family and friends, understanding that togetherness is more important than material gifts.
Example Lesson: Joy in giving
Explanation: Calamity experiences happiness in giving gifts and sharing with others, rather than just receiving.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to find joy in acts of giving and sharing, whether by donating toys they no longer use or helping a friend with a task.
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: The character uses creative solutions to overcome obstacles, showing that sometimes unconventional thinking is necessary.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think creatively in their problem-solving, whether in academic projects or in everyday challenges.