Franklin's Nickname (A Franklin TV Storybook)
#5 in Franklin The Turtle Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
Desperately wanting a cool nickname like his favorite athletes, Franklin is dubbed 'Pokey' by his friends and becomes determined to prove to everyone that he deserves a different nickname, learning a valuable lesson in the process. Reprint.
Character compass
Franklin
Discussion points
Why do you think Franklin was worried about getting a nickname?
How do you feel when your friends call you by a nickname?
What does this story teach us about the importance of kindness and understanding towards others?
Can you think of a time when someone made you feel better like Bear did for Franklin?
Why is it important to think about how our words affect other people?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story about a nickname you have or had, explaining how it made you feel. This can help your child relate to Franklin’s situation.
When discussing the book's messages, encourage your child to express their feelings openly, and validate their emotions as part of the learning process.
Praise thoughtful or reflective responses, reinforcing the value of empathy and consideration highlighted in the story.
Highlight moments in the story where characters show kindness, and ask your child how they might act similarly in their own life.
After discussing the book, suggest creating fun, positive nicknames for each other, focusing on fostering a family atmosphere of love and respect.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and acceptance
Explanation: In the story, Franklin learns the value of being kind and accepting others when his friends nickname him 'Slowpoke.' He realizes the impact of words and how they can hurt someone’s feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the importance of choosing their words carefully and being considerate of others’ feelings in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: When Franklin expresses how the nickname made him feel, his friends understand his perspective and empathize with his emotions, leading to a resolution.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to listen to their peers' feelings and understand that their actions affect others, promoting empathetic behaviors in school and at home.
Example Lesson: Resolving conflicts
Explanation: Franklin addresses the issue of being called a nickname he dislikes by talking to his friends about it, which helps resolve the conflict amicably.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of communication in solving misunderstandings and disputes, encouraging them to speak up when they are uncomfortable.
Example Lesson: Self-awareness and personal growth
Explanation: Franklin initially reacts defensively to the nickname but eventually communicates his feelings. This shows personal growth and self-awareness.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to reflect on their feelings and express them constructively, aiding in their emotional development.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: Despite feeling upset, Franklin manages to confront the situation positively, which strengthens his character and resilience.
Real-World Application: It teaches children that facing challenges head-on, rather than avoiding them, builds strength and character, useful in all areas of life.