Flamingos Can't Drive: A Motivational Children's Book About Believing In Yourself and Never Giving Up
What’s inside...
Flamingo has a dream to drive, but her friend Koala discourages her by listing reasons why she can't. Despite this, Flamingo is brave and courageous and decides to try her best to achieve her dream. This children's book follows Flamingo's journey, highlighting themes of perseverance, courage, and bravery. It is perfect for children ages 4-8, as well as teachers, counselors, families, and anyone looking for a book that encourages confidence and courage.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it means when the book says, 'Flamingos can't drive, but they can do other amazing things'? Can you think of something special you can do?
Why do you think the flamingo kept trying even when it was hard? Have you ever had to keep trying something difficult?
How did the other animals in the book help the flamingo? How do our friends and family help us when we are trying to do something tough?
What would you say to the flamingo if you were one of its friends in the story?
How do you feel when you accomplish something you've been working on for a long time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences to the flamingo's journey. Ask them to share a time when they didn't give up.
Highlight the importance of support from others by discussing how the flamingo's friends encouraged it. Talk about who supports your child in their endeavors.
Emphasize the value of persistence and how it leads to success, just like the flamingo's repeated attempts.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to make the story more engaging, altering your voice for different characters to keep your child interested.
After reading, ask your child to draw or act out their favorite part of the story. This helps deepen their understanding and connection to the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Believe in Yourself
Explanation: The story focuses on a flamingo who, despite others doubting its abilities, continues to strive and believe in its own potential to accomplish things beyond typical flamingo behavior, like driving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to trust in their own skills and dreams, even when others might not see their potential. This promotes self-confidence and perseverance in personal goals.
Example Lesson: Never Give Up
Explanation: Throughout the book, the flamingo faces multiple challenges but persists in its efforts to learn how to drive, showcasing determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of persistence in overcoming difficulties, whether it be learning a new skill, solving a problem, or achieving a seemingly impossible task.
Example Lesson: Accepting and Celebrating Differences
Explanation: The flamingo in the story is different from the rest, not only because it wants to drive, but also in its unique approach to life. The story encourages embracing individuality.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to appreciate what makes them and others unique, which fosters an inclusive attitude and a better understanding of diversity.
Example Lesson: Support from Friends and Family
Explanation: As the flamingo persists, it gains support from others who initially doubted it, illustrating the power of encouragement from loved ones.
Real-World Application: The importance of a supportive network is highlighted, teaching children to seek help and encouragement and to offer the same to others in their pursuit of goals.