Goodnight Ballet
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Goodnight Ballet is a heartwarming story that follows a young ballerina as she says goodnight to all the elements of her beloved dance studio. From the ballet barres to her dance shoes, each page is a gentle nod to the world of ballet, perfect for lulling little dancers to sleep.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the dancers felt when they were performing on stage?
What was your favorite part of the ballet show in the book and why?
Can you describe the different emotions you saw in the characters throughout the story?
What did you learn about ballet from the book?
If you could be one of the characters in 'Goodnight Ballet,' who would you be and what dance would you perform?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know or think about ballet to gauge their initial thoughts.
While reading, point out the expressions of the characters and the colors used in the illustrations to help convey the mood of the story.
After reading, encourage your child to express their feelings about the book through a creative activity such as drawing their favorite scene or dancing like a ballet dancer.
Connect the story to your child’s experiences by discussing any performances they have seen or participated in and their feelings about them.
Praise your child’s insights and thoughts during the discussion to build their confidence and interest in analyzing stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of routine
Explanation: In 'Goodnight Ballet', the consistent bedtime routine of the young ballerina emphasizes the value of ending the day with familiar, calming activities.
Real-World Application: Children can benefit from establishing their own bedtime routines, helping them to wind down and prepare for sleep effectively each night.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: The protagonist imagines herself performing in a grand ballet as she gets ready for bed, demonstrating how imagination can make everyday activities more enjoyable and special.
Real-World Application: Kids can use their imagination to transform mundane tasks into exciting adventures, enhancing their creativity and enjoyment of daily routines.
Example Lesson: Dedication to passion
Explanation: The young ballerina's practice of her ballet positions before bed shows her dedication to her craft, even in her downtime.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistently pursuing what they love, whether it's an art form like ballet, a sport, or any other interest, fostering discipline and commitment.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-care
Explanation: The story highlights the routines that support the ballerina's physical and mental well-being, emphasizing the need for self-care.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the significance of taking care of their own bodies and minds, promoting habits such as stretching, reading, or meditating before bed.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for art and culture
Explanation: By incorporating ballet, a classical dance form, into her bedtime routine, the book introduces young readers to the world of performing arts.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and appreciate diverse forms of art and culture, which can lead to a more enriched and well-rounded education.