Can You Do This, Old Badger?
What’s inside...
There are lots of things Little Badger can do that Old Badger can't manage to do anymore. But Old Badger can still show Little Badger a few tricks--especially about nap time! There are lots of things Little Badger can do that Old Badger can't manage to do very well anymore. But Old Badger can still show Little Badger a few tricks to teach him how to become a badger extraordinaire--like how to catch fish, where to find worms, and how to get to the honey before the bees get to you. Old badgers are supposed to teach little badgers, he says. It's all part of the plan--and so is nap time! The first book in a new character-based picture book series from an award-winning author, 'Children's Book-of-the-Month Club Selection', is an intergenerational story with classic appeal for children, parents, and grandparents.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-3
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Old Badger wanted Little Badger to try new things?
How did Little Badger feel when he tried something new? Can you relate to his feelings?
What did Little Badger learn by the end of the story?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like Little Badger? What happened?
Why is it important to keep trying even when something seems difficult?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each page, ask your child to guess what Old Badger might teach Little Badger next. This promotes prediction skills.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences by discussing similar challenges they’ve faced and how they felt.
Discuss the emotions of Little Badger at different points in the story, enhancing emotional intelligence.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of something new they want to try, just like Little Badger.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: In 'Can You Do This, Old Badger?', Little Badger faces several challenges but keeps trying until he succeeds, showcasing the importance of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it’s solving a tough puzzle or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Respect for Elders
Explanation: The story portrays Old Badger sharing his wisdom and experiences, underscoring the value of listening to and learning from older generations.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to listen to their grandparents or elderly neighbors, gaining knowledge and stories from their rich experiences.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Little Badger uses creative thinking to solve problems throughout the book, illustrating the usefulness of innovative approaches.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination in problem-solving scenarios, be it during playtime or academic activities.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Little Badger shows bravery in facing new challenges, a fundamental aspect of the book that highlights the importance of courage in overcoming fears.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by bravely facing their fears, whether it’s trying out for a team or speaking in front of their class.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonds
Explanation: The mutual support between Little Badger and Old Badger emphasizes the significance of family support and bonding.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to cherish and seek support and guidance from their family members during challenging times.