Dick and Jane: A Christmas Story
Dick and Jane Series
What’s inside...
A charming oversized picture book features Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, and Puff as they celebrate the holidays with family and special togetherness.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dick
Jane
Discussion points
How did Dick and Jane show kindness and generosity during their Christmas adventure?
What are some new traditions they created that we can try this Christmas?
Why is it important to help others, like Dick and Jane did?
How did Dick and Jane feel when they gave their gifts? How do you feel when you give someone a gift?
What can we learn from the challenges Dick and Jane faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing, relate the actions of Dick and Jane to your child’s life by drawing parallels between the kindness shown in the book and moments of kindness in your own family.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, affirming their responses to foster a positive conversation experience.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios in the book, nurturing their creativity and critical thinking.
Use story points from 'Dick and Jane: A Christmas Story' to teach lessons about empathy and compassion, connecting the book's themes to everyday behavior.
After reading, extend the conversation by planning family activities that embody the spirit of giving, drawing inspiration from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: In 'Dick and Jane: A Christmas Story', the characters experience happiness by giving thoughtful gifts to each other. The narrative focuses on the thought and love put into each gift, rather than its material value.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value the act of giving and understand that thoughtfulness and love are the most significant parts of a gift. This can encourage them to enjoy making and giving handmade gifts or performing acts of kindness.
Example Lesson: Importance of family traditions
Explanation: Throughout the book, Dick and Jane partake in various family traditions that bring them closer together, emphasizing the warmth and comfort these traditions provide.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in their own family traditions or even start new ones. This can strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.
Example Lesson: Sharing with others
Explanation: The story showcases Dick and Jane sharing their Christmas treats and toys with friends, highlighting the happiness that comes from sharing.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of sharing with others, not just with possessions but also sharing time and experiences, fostering a sense of community and friendship.
Example Lesson: Embracing the spirit of Christmas
Explanation: The book captures the essence of the Christmas spirit through its illustrations and narrative, focusing on themes like generosity, love, and family.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and spread the spirit of Christmas throughout the year by embodying its values in their daily actions and interactions with others, promoting a more loving and caring attitude.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Dick and Jane express genuine gratitude for all they receive and for the time spent with family, pointing out that being thankful is crucial.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to be grateful not only during festive seasons but all year round, appreciating the big and small things in their lives and expressing gratitude towards others.