Click, Clack, Surprise!
#5 of 11 in Farmer Brown's Barnyard Tales Series
What’s inside...
In this charming picture book by award-winning duo Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin, Little Duck is celebrating his first birthday but has never had a birthday party before. With the help of other farm animals, Little Duck learns to prepare by mimicking their pre-party routines, from trimming feathers like the sheep to taking a mud bath like the pigs. Despite ending up a big mess, the day is saved with Farmer Brown's frosted maple cake, making Little Duck's birthday a memorable one.
Discussion points
How do you think the animals felt when they were preparing for the party?
What are some ways we can help others prepare for a special event?
Why do you think Duck wanted to keep the surprise a secret?
What would you have done if you were part of the farmyard surprise?
How do surprises make you feel, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about surprises, relating to how characters in the book might have felt.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and helping others as seen in the book, and ask your child about times they helped someone.
Before reading, explain the concept of a 'surprise' and why people might plan one. After reading, revisit this explanation to reinforce understanding.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next at several points while reading to engage their prediction skills.
Create a fun, interactive reading environment by using different voices for different characters, enhancing the storytelling experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Kindness
Explanation: In 'Click, Clack, Surprise!', the farm animals throw a surprise party for Little Duck. This shows a spirit of generosity and caring.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being kind and celebrating others' milestones, encouraging them to partake in thoughtful acts in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: All the farm animals work together to organize the party. This highlights how teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson at school or during group activities, learning to collaborate effectively to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Embracing Individual Growth
Explanation: The story revolves around Little Duck’s birthday, marking a year of growth. This symbolizes the celebration of personal development.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and appreciate their own growth and milestones, fostering a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As party plans evolve, the animals adapt to changes and surprises. It teaches flexibility and the ability to adjust to new situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being adaptable in their daily routines, whether it's dealing with a change in plans or unexpected situations.
Example Lesson: Joy in Life's Simple Pleasures
Explanation: The joyous celebration over simple things like a birthday highlights the importance of finding happiness in everyday moments.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to appreciate and find joy in the small, everyday events and interactions.