Dog and Bear: Two Friends, Three Stories (My Readers)
Puppy And Bear Series
on Goodreads (600)
What’s inside...
Laura Vaccaro Seeger's concept books have introduced children to basic concepts such as colors, opposites, emotions, and the alphabet. In her latest book, she presents three delightful stories featuring a stuffed bear and a lively dachshund who are best friends. The simple, engaging text and vivid, colorful illustrations make this book ideal for emergent readers, who can either read it by themselves or share it with friends. The characters, Dog and Bear, are set to become favorites alongside classic duos like Henry and Mudge, Frog and Toad, and George and Martha. 'Dog and Bear: Two Friends, Three Stories' has won the 2007 Boston Globe - Horn Book Award for Picture Books and includes Common Core connections.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dog
Bear
Discussion points
What do you think makes Dog and Bear such good friends?
How do Dog and Bear solve problems together in the stories?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like Dog helps Bear?
What is your favorite part of the book and why?
If you could add another story to the book, what adventure would Dog and Bear have next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the qualities that make someone a good friend, drawing parallels to their own experiences. Discuss the importance of teamwork and how Dog and Bear work together to solve their challenges. Use the stories as a springboard to talk about emotions and how we can support our friends when they need us. Highlight the joy of shared adventures and ask your child to imagine their own stories for Dog and Bear, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Through the playful and supportive interactions between Dog and Bear, children learn the importance of having and being a good friend.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by building strong relationships with their peers, supporting and caring for each other during playtime and other activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: In the stories, Dog and Bear encounter various challenges that they solve together, showcasing teamwork and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids can use these examples to work through conflicts or challenges they face at school or home by brainstorming solutions and cooperating with others.
Example Lesson: Embracing differences
Explanation: Despite being different species with distinct personalities, Dog and Bear get along wonderfully, teaching children the value of accepting and cherishing everyone's uniqueness.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to appreciate diversity among their friends and classmates, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: The book highlights how Dog and Bear manage misunderstandings or feelings by talking openly, demonstrating effective communication.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully in their dealings with others, which is crucial for building healthy relationships.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Dog and Bear often adjust their plans and ideas to accommodate each other's needs, teaching flexibility and compromise.
Real-World Application: In real life, children will understand that being flexible and considerate of others' views and needs can lead to more harmonious engagements.