Hide and Seek
#1 of 12 in Under the Couch Series
What’s inside...
This is the worst summer ever for ten-year-old Spencer. Everything in his life has changed: new house, new neighborhood, new nanny, and no friends. He misses his old friends and feels anxious about starting a new school. What's worse, he's stuck with his annoying seven-year-old brother, Justin, and an odd nanny that his mother hired for the summer. While playing hide-and-seek, Justin disappears under the antique couch, leading Spencer into a strange under-the-couch world. The brothers must work together to navigate this hidden world, face dangers, and find a way back home before the nanny notices. 'Hide and Seek' is the first book in a kids' fantasy series about sibling relationships, overcoming challenges, and the adventures in a mysterious world under the couch.
Discussion points
What do you think the characters felt when they were hiding and seeking?
How would you play hide and seek differently after reading this book?
Why do you think the characters decided to play hide and seek?
What did you learn about being a good friend from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the game and relate them to the characters’ experiences.
Discuss with your child how teamwork and understanding are portrayed in the book and how they can apply these in their everyday play.
Ask your child to imagine and describe where they would hide if playing hide and seek with the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Hide and Seek,' children work together to find hidden objects, demonstrating the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of working collaboratively to achieve common goals, which can be applied in school projects and family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters face challenges finding objects, which they overcome through critical thinking and strategy.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages kids to apply logical reasoning to solve problems in everyday tasks, from organizing their rooms to completing homework.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: As characters wait for their turn to hide or seek, they show patience and respect for others' turns.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to wait their turn patiently during games or in queues, fostering good manners and respect for others.
Example Lesson: Observation Skills
Explanation: The characters keenly observe their surroundings to find the hidden items, sharpening their attention to detail.
Real-World Application: Enhances children's ability to notice details in their environment, aiding in learning and awareness.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Activities
Explanation: The book highlights the fun derived from simple games like hide and seek, without the need for technology.
Real-World Application: Encourages children and families to engage in more physical play, reducing screen time and promoting a healthier lifestyle.