Horrible Haircut (Bananas Series)
#1 in Blue bananas Series
What’s inside...
Mum promises that if she cuts Lucy's hair too short then Lucy can cut her hair in return. Lucy's little brother Johnny decides that Scruff the dog needs a haircut too, and that's when things get really hairy!
Discussion points
How do you think the character felt when they got their haircut? Have you ever felt the same way?
What would you have done differently if you were in the character's shoes during their haircut experience?
Why do you think the character reacted the way they did to their haircut?
What does this story teach us about handling unexpected situations?
Can you think of a time when something didn't turn out the way you wanted, like the character's haircut? What did you learn from it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive facial expressions and voices to make the story come alive, mirroring the character’s emotions to help your child connect with them.
Pause at key moments in the story to allow your child to predict what might happen next or to discuss how the character might be feeling.
Relate the story to your child's personal experiences with haircuts or changes in appearance to help them draw personal connections.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different reactions from the characters to foster creative thinking.
After reading, ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or write a short continuation of the story to engage their creative expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing change
Explanation: In 'Horrible Haircut', the protagonist deals with an unexpected change in appearance after a haircut goes wrong. Throughout the story, the character learns to accept and embrace the change.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to changes in their own lives, whether it's moving to a new school, getting new glasses, or other alterations in their routine or appearance.
Example Lesson: Building self-esteem
Explanation: Despite initially feeling upset about the haircut, the main character gradually discovers self-confidence by the end of the book. This transformation is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This story can encourage children to find confidence within themselves, regardless of external appearances or situations that may seem initially discouraging.
Example Lesson: Seeking support from friends and family
Explanation: As the protagonist struggles with their new haircut, they turn to friends and family for support, who offer reassurance and advice, helping them to see the positive side.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded of the importance of leaning on loved ones during challenging times, helping them to foster stronger relationships and communication skills.
Example Lesson: Humor as coping mechanism
Explanation: The story uses humor to help the character, and the reader, deal with an unpleasant situation, lightening the mood and bringing a positive spin to the event.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to use humor as a healthy way to cope with minor adversities or mishaps in their lives, helping them to maintain a positive outlook.