Cat in the Hat, the
#1 of 4 in Dr. Seuss nursery collection Series
What’s inside...
Te Poti ro Potae is a new translation of the popular children's classic The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss, translated into Maori by Ngamaru Raerino. The book maintains the same format and illustrations as the traditional English edition and focuses on retaining the rhythm and fun of the original story. The translation is not bilingual and is presented solely in Maori. This classic picture book follows the iconic Cat in the Hat and the characters Thing One and Thing Two, making reading enjoyable for kids of all ages.
Discussion points
What do you think about the Cat's idea of fun? How would you feel if the Cat visited our house?
Why do you think the fish did not want the Cat in the house? Do you agree with the fish or the Cat?
How do the children feel throughout the story? What would you have done if you were in their place?
What did you learn about taking responsibility from the story?
If you could create a new character to join the Cat, what would they be like and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the Cat’s behavior. Highlight the importance of thinking through the consequences of one's actions.
Use the differing perspectives of the fish and the Cat to talk about the value of rules and order versus fun and freedom. Ask your child where they stand and why.
Encourage your child to connect their own experiences with those of the children in the book, particularly in situations where they had to make difficult choices.
Discuss the resolution of the story and what it teaches about cleaning up one’s messes. Relate it to similar situations at home or in school.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story of 'The Cat in the Hat' shows the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions. The children, left unsupervised, let the Cat in the house which leads to chaos. They realize their mistake and take responsibility to clean up before their mother returns.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take charge of their actions and understand the consequences in everyday situations like cleaning up their room or taking care of their belongings.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The Cat’s antics demonstrate the power of creativity and imagination. The Cat turns a dull, rainy day into an adventure, inspiring kids to use their imagination.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to engage in creative play or find inventive solutions to problems instead of feeling bored or discontented.
Example Lesson: Setting Boundaries
Explanation: As fun as the Cat's visit initially seems, the children learn to set boundaries when things get out of hand. This is demonstrated when the fish consistently warns about the consequences and eventually, the children make the Cat leave.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of setting boundaries in real life, such as politely speaking up when they’re uncomfortable or knowing when to stop a potentially harmful activity.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The story illustrates that actions have consequences. The children face the mess created in their house due to the Cat’s behavior and acknowledge the need to fix the situation.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that their actions affect themselves and others, and they should think about the possible outcomes before acting.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Rules
Explanation: ‘The Cat in the Hat’ indirectly teaches about the importance of rules. Initially, breaking them seems fun but eventually leads to disorder. Observing rules can prevent negative outcomes like the mess in the story.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and follow rules at home, school, or in community settings, recognizing that they are set for their safety and well-being.