Donut Worry
#1 in Dessert Diaries Series
on Goodreads (93)
What’s inside...
Poor Donut is feeling anxious as school is about to start again, and she can’t stop all sorts of worries from filling her round donut head. She is tired of her friends and family dismissing her concerns by saying, 'Don't worry!' as if it's that simple. With the help of her new friend, Cookie, Donut looks for strategies to manage her anxiety and cope with her fears about returning to school.
Discussion points
How did the characters in the book handle their worries? Can you think of a time when you felt similar?
What does the donut represent in the story? How does it help the main character feel better?
What are some ways the characters showed kindness and support to each other?
Why is it important to talk about our feelings, like the characters in the book do?
How do you think the story would change if the donut wasn't there?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by sharing a personal story about a time you felt worried and how you dealt with it. This can help create a comfortable space for your child to open up.
Encourage your child to draw or write about a scenario from the book, then discuss what they created, focusing on the feelings and actions of the characters.
Use expressions and gestures to bring the story to life as you discuss it, making connections to the emotions and themes within the book.
Praise your child’s responses to foster confidence and encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings more openly.
Relate the book's themes to real-life situations your child may encounter, discussing potential coping mechanisms and supportive behaviors.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: In 'Donut Worry', the main characters display strong bonds of friendship by supporting and uplifting each other in times of need.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be supportive friends in their own lives, helping their peers during difficult times and celebrating their successes.
Example Lesson: Value of Sharing
Explanation: The story showcases characters sharing donuts happily, emphasizing the joy and communal harmony that comes from sharing.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice sharing their own belongings, such as toys or snacks, fostering a sense of community and generosity in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Managing Disappointments
Explanation: When things don't go as planned in the story, characters learn to manage their disappointment and look for positive solutions.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to handle disappointments gracefully and encourages them to find alternative positive outcomes when faced with setbacks.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters use creative thinking to solve problems that arise, demonstrating the effectiveness of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to apply creative thinking in problem-solving scenarios in school or while playing, enhancing their cognitive flexibility.