Frances Can Play
#4 of 4 in It's Gillie Series
What’s inside...
In 'Frances Can Play,' a heartwarming children's story by Sarah-Leigh Wills, readers meet Frances, a young and imaginative girl who loves music. Despite being told that she is too young to play an instrument, Frances's passion for music doesn't wane. With determination and the support of her family and friends, she embarks on a journey to learn the piano. Along the way, she faces challenges but learns valuable lessons about perseverance, the joy of music, and the importance of believing in oneself. Frances's story inspires children to pursue their dreams and to never let others define their capabilities.
Discussion points
How do you think Frances felt when she discovered she could play music?
What did Frances learn about herself by the end of the story?
Why is it important to try new things, like Frances did with music?
How did Frances' friends and family help her in her musical journey?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate to Frances by sharing a personal story of trying something new, emphasizing the feelings and lessons learned.
Highlight the significance of support from friends and family, and ask your child about who supports them in their activities.
Discuss the idea of perseverance and the joy of discovering new talents, linking it to the child’s personal experiences or aspirations.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to capture the emotions and excitement Frances feels throughout her journey, making the story more relatable and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Inclusivity
Explanation: Frances demonstrates inclusivity by inviting everyone to join in her games, regardless of their skills or backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to include others during school activities or playground games, fostering an environment of acceptance and belonging.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Frances shows courage when she tries new games despite feeling unsure, teaching children to face fears with bravery.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this by trying new activities or subjects they find challenging, building their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of working together to achieve a common goal during playtime.
Real-World Application: Children can practice cooperation in team projects or family chores, understanding that collective efforts yield better results.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Frances learns to understand and share the feelings of her friends when they're sad or need help.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life by being supportive and attentive to the feelings of classmates and friends, enhancing their emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: By imagining and creating new games, Frances demonstrates creativity, encouraging self-expression among her peers.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace their imaginative side in arts and crafts or storytelling, cultivating a creative mindset that is crucial in all spheres of life.