Hideaway House
What’s inside...
When Monty Mouse discovers the abandoned Hideaway House, he decides to make it his new home. Soon, other animals like Timothy Toad, Racer Rat, Legs the Spider, and Batty Bats also move in, transforming the once derelict mansion into a bustling and joyful sanctuary. Eric Kincaid's illustrations beautifully showcase the transformation of Hideaway House and the lively community of animals that reside there.
Age
4-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you had a secret hideaway like in the story?
How do you think the characters felt when they discovered Hideaway House?
Why is it important to have a special place where you feel safe and happy?
What would you keep in your Hideaway House and why?
How can we create our own 'hideaway' moments in our daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the story to life, changing your tone for different characters and situations.
Pause at key moments to ask your child how they think a character is feeling, helping them develop empathy and understanding.
Encourage your child to describe their ideal hideaway, fostering creativity and personal expression.
Discuss the importance of having personal space, validating their feelings and teaching them about boundaries.
Create a small project, such as drawing or building their version of a hideaway, to deepen their connection with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Hideaway House,' characters work together to solve problems and make their hidden house a better place. Their cooperation highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in team activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each other’s contributions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The story encourages imaginative play as the characters create a unique space in their hideaway. This fosters creativity among young readers.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this inspiration to engage in creative activities such as drawing, building, or storytelling, enhancing their cognitive and creative skills.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the book take responsibility for maintaining their hideaway and resolving conflicts. This teaches children about accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in understanding their role in maintaining cleanliness in their living spaces and resolving disputes amicably with peers.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The book touches on the importance of respecting and taking care of one's surroundings, as the characters keep their hideaway tidy and safe.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be mindful of their environment, encouraging them to participate in recycling and conservation efforts from a young age.