Hattie's New House (Little Dolphin #1)
#1 in Little Dolphin Series
on Goodreads (11)
What’s inside...
Little Dolphin and his friends in Urchin Bay always have fun and adventures together in their underwater world. Little Dolphin and his friend Milo are learning to jump! But Little Dolphin just can't manage it. And soon they have more important things on their mind - Vinnie the shark has persuaded Hattie to swap her old shell for a new one, and it's much too small! Little Dolphin and Milo come splashing to the rescue ...
Discussion points
How do you think Hattie felt when she moved to her new house? Can you relate to her feelings?
What are some ways that Hattie tried to make her new house feel like home? Have you ever done something similar?
How did Hattie's friends help her feel better about her new house? Why do you think their help was important?
What would you do if you were in Hattie's situation to make your new environment more welcoming?
How do you think the story would change if Hattie hadn't found her special shell? How important are personal belongings to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about moving and adapting to new environments. Relate their experiences to Hattie’s in the story.
Discuss the importance of friendship and support systems when facing changes, drawing parallels with Hattie’s interactions with her marine friends.
Ask your child to think about personal items that make them feel secure and loved, similar to Hattie’s shell, and discuss why these items are special.
Invite your child to imagine alternative endings to the story based on different scenarios or choices made by Hattie, enhancing their creative thinking.
Highlight the themes of adventure and curiosity, encouraging your child to see changes and new experiences as opportunities for growth and exploration.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: In 'Hattie's New House', Hattie the dolphin faces challenges as she moves to a new home. She learns to adapt by finding new friends and exploring her new environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace change positively, seeing new situations as opportunities to grow and make new connections.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Hattie shows concern for her friends' feelings and helps them when they are in trouble. This demonstrates empathy and caring for others.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply empathy in their daily interactions by noticing how their peers are feeling and offering support or kindness when needed.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When faced with obstacles, Hattie uses her intelligence and creativity to find solutions, showing effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that they can think critically and creatively to resolve conflicts or issues they encounter in school or at play.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Despite feeling nervous about her new surroundings, Hattie bravely explores the ocean. Her courage is pivotal in adapting to her new home.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face fears and try new things, whether it’s attending a new school, making new friends, or trying out a new activity.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Hattie builds strong bonds with other marine creatures, which highlights the importance of friendship and mutual support.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of building and maintaining friendships, understanding that these relationships provide support and joy in their lives.