Dragons Do Eat Homework
#5 in The Bailey School Kids Jr. Chapter Books Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (115)
What’s inside...
When a dragon moves into a boy's bedroom, he learns that dragons do eat homework, but they also help with math and science projects, and can even be good friends. Meanwhile, Howie doesn't have his homework and he always has his homework! The question arises: is it really possible that a dragon took it?
Discussion points
What do you think made the dragons want to eat the homework, and how would you convince them not to?
If you had a dragon as a classmate, what would be the most exciting and the most challenging part?
How do the characters in the story handle unexpected problems? What would you do in a similar situation?
What do you think is the most important lesson the characters learned about friendship?
If you could create your own magical creature for your classroom, what abilities would it have and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your voice for different characters and express emotions vividly to make the story come alive.
Encourage empathy: Ask your child how they would feel in the characters' situations, promoting empathy and understanding.
Relate to personal experiences: Connect themes of the book to your child’s everyday life, asking if they have ever faced similar situations at school.
Encourage creativity: After reading, engage your child in drawing their version of a classroom dragon or another magical creature.
Discuss consequences: Talk about the consequences of the characters' actions in the story, and relate them to real-life outcomes of similar actions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty is the best policy
Explanation: In 'Dragons Do Eat Homework', the characters learn the consequences of lying when trying to cover up a homework mishap involving a pet dragon.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding the importance of telling the truth, even when they’re afraid of the consequences. It helps build trust with parents and teachers.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The book showcases characters taking responsibility for their actions and their pets, emphasizing the importance of accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s life by encouraging them to take care of their belongings and complete their tasks, such as homework, on time.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: When faced with the problem of a missing homework, the characters in the book collaborate and use creative thinking to find a solution.
Real-World Application: Children learn that when they encounter a problem, brainstorming and working together with others can lead to the best solution.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The book portrays how friends can help each other in difficult times, showcasing the importance of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to help their friends and value the friendships they have, knowing that friends can be a great support system.
Example Lesson: Coping with unexpected situations
Explanation: The characters face unexpected events and learn to adapt, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that not everything may go as planned, but staying calm and thinking through the situation can help them manage and overcome challenges.