Freckleface Strawberry and the Dodgeball Bully
#2 of 3 in Freckleface Strawberry Series
on Goodreads (274)
What’s inside...
Freckleface Strawberry loves the Early Bird program at school because it means extra time on the playground, except when it rains. Rain means indoor playtime and facing the school bully, Windy Pants Patrick, in a game of dodgeball. Ignoring him seems the safest thing, but what's our freckled heroine to do when she's forced to confront the bully alone? She decides to beat him at his own game. A funny, inspiring story about an all-too-common problem that kids, parents, and teachers will easily relate to.
Discussion points
How did Freckleface Strawberry feel when she faced the dodgeball bully? Can you relate to her emotions?
What did Freckleface Strawberry do to solve her problem with the bully? Do you think that was a good way to handle it?
Why is it important to stand up to bullies? How can you do it in a safe way?
Freckleface Strawberry used her imagination in the story. Can you think of a time when your imagination helped you?
What would you do if you saw someone else being bullied? How can you help them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own feelings about bullying and being brave. Validate their emotions and emphasize that it’s okay to discuss uncomfortable topics. Use examples from the book to explain how empathy and creativity can be powerful tools in tackling difficult situations. Guide them to think about constructive ways to deal with bullies and ask them to imagine alternate endings to the story to foster creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In the story, Freckleface Strawberry learns to understand the emotions and fears of others, including the dodgeball bully, who is scared of the ball.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to recognize and consider the feelings of their peers, encouraging a more compassionate and inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: The protagonist shows bravery by confronting the bully and her own fears by engaging in the game of dodgeball despite initial anxiety.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their personal fears, whether it’s trying a new activity or standing up for themselves or others.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem-Solving
Explanation: Freckleface Strawberry uses clever and non-confrontational methods to resolve the conflict with the bully, promoting a peaceful solution.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think of alternative, peaceful ways to solve disputes and misunderstandings they encounter in school or in play.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite being afraid, Freckleface Strawberry perseveres and continues to play, illustrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance even when faced with challenges, helping them develop resilience in various life situations.