Chicken Soup for the Soul KIDS: The Sunshine Squad: Discovering What Makes You Special
#1 of 8 in Chicken Soup For The Soul Series
What’s inside...
Chicken Soup for the Soul Kids: The Sunshine Squad follows five friends who decide to become superheroes. They have courage, capes, and even a secret clubhouse. Each member has their own superpower: Oliver is a genius at drawing comics, Mia is a star athlete, Lilly creates amazing inventions, Lucas is a master of practical jokes, and Sophie is an animal expert. Tommy, the tagalong little brother, is still figuring out his strength. Despite feeling like he doesn't belong, Tommy helps his neighbors on 123 Sunshine Street in various ways, discovering that caring about others might be the greatest superpower of all.
Discussion points
What unique qualities do you think make you special, just like the characters in the book?
How did the characters discover what made them special? Can you think of a time when you discovered something special about yourself?
Why is it important to appreciate the special qualities in others?
How do you feel when you help others, and can you share a moment when helping someone made you happy?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing something you think makes your child special. This helps set a positive and open environment for your child to explore their own thoughts.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between their experiences and those of the characters. This can help them apply the book's lessons to their own life.
Highlight the importance of diversity and acceptance. Discuss how everyone has unique traits that contribute to a vibrant community, just like in 'The Sunshine Squad'.
Ask your child to think about how they can help or cheer up someone else, relating to how the characters in the book interact with each other.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-discovery
Explanation: The Sunshine Squad helps each other discover their unique talents and strengths. Each member's journey showcases the importance of self-exploration.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in activities that help them identify and cultivate their own unique skills and interests.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Through their adventures, The Sunshine Squad demonstrates how working together can solve problems more effectively than working alone.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by participating in group activities or team sports, learning to collaborate and value each team member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The characters in the book often express understanding and compassion towards each other, illustrating the power of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can practice empathy by listening to their friends, sharing, and being considerate of others' feelings in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The members of The Sunshine Squad frequently encounter challenges that they address through discussion and innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach obstacles in their lives calmly and with a problem-solving mindset, whether at home or in school.
Example Lesson: Celebrating diversity
Explanation: The book highlights the diverse backgrounds and abilities of The Sunshine Squad members, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect everyone's differences, promoting a harmonious environment at school and in community settings.