Champ and Major: First Dogs
What’s inside...
A picture book about Champ and Major, President-elect Joe Biden's two adorable dogs. Major, the first shelter dog in the White House, will be shown around by Champ. Champ, who has visited the White House before when his dad was vice president, is excited to go back and show his little brother around. As the new president of the United States, their dad, Joe Biden, has a big job ahead, and Champ and Major are ready to bring fun to their new home.
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Major Biden
Champ Biden
Joe Biden
Discussion points
What do you think Champ and Major did all day at the White House?
How do you think Champ and Major felt when they first moved to the White House?
What responsibilities do you think a First Dog might have?
If you were a First Dog, what would be the first thing you would want to do?
How do you think having pets like Champ and Major could help a president in their job?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow your child to lead the conversation based on their favorite moments in the book.
Relate the story to your child’s own experiences with pets or moving to a new home.
Discuss the importance of responsibilities and caring for others, as illustrated by the roles of Champ and Major.
Encourage your child to imagine their own pet adventures and how they would feel in different situations.
Highlight the themes of friendship and loyalty demonstrated by Champ and Major’s relationship.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story portrays Champ and Major adapting to their new roles in the White House, highlighting the importance of taking responsibility in new situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and handle new responsibilities at school or home, such as taking care of a pet or managing their own school supplies.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the book, the dogs face various changes and learn to adapt to their new environment.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by learning to be flexible and adapt to changes such as moving to a new city or adjusting to a new grade in school.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Champ and Major support each other through their journey, illustrating the value of friendship.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be supportive friends in their own lives, helping their peers through transitions and new experiences.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The dogs show courage when facing the intimidating environment of the White House, teaching children to be brave in unfamiliar situations.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to face new challenges courageously, whether it’s participating in a school play, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for themselves.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Champ and Major learn to understand and be sensitive to each other’s fears and feelings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy towards their classmates and family members, understanding and respecting different emotions and perspectives.