Hugo Makes a Change
What’s inside...
Hugo the vampire craves red, juicy meat for every meal! But when his eating habits leave him feeling sluggish and bored, he goes on the prowl for something new. After trying fruits and vegetables for the first time, he discovers the joys of a more balanced diet. The story is told in rhymed verse accompanied by simple, charming, graphic illustrations.
Discussion points
What do you think made Hugo want to change his habits?
How do you feel when you try something new, like Hugo?
What are some new foods or activities you would like to try?
How did Hugo's friends help him in his journey?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend or a friend helped you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about change by relating it to Hugo's experiences in the story.
Discuss the importance of trying new things and how it can be both exciting and a little scary.
Link the story to your child’s life by talking about new foods or activities they might want to explore.
Highlight the value of friendship and support like Hugo's friends provided, and ask your child about their experiences of giving or receiving help.
Reinforce the concept of growth and change as positive by celebrating the courage it takes to make changes, just like Hugo.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of a Balanced Diet
Explanation: Hugo, the main character, discovers the benefits of swapping his meat-heavy diet for more fruits and vegetables, leading to better health and more energy.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of incorporating various types of food into their meals, promoting better eating habits from a young age.
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: Throughout the book, Hugo learns to embrace change positively, seeing its benefits first-hand which improves his lifestyle.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to be open to changes and new experiences, whether it's trying different foods or adapting to new situations in life.
Example Lesson: Adventure and Exploration
Explanation: As Hugo ventures out to try new foods, he embarks on a journey that introduces him to a whole new world of flavors and experiences.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and learn from their surroundings, understanding that adventure can lead to new learning opportunities and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Listening to One's Body
Explanation: Hugo listens to his body’s need for a more varied and healthier diet, ultimately making a change for the better.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to be mindful of their body's signals and the importance of responding to them to maintain health.
Example Lesson: Joy in Healthy Living
Explanation: With his new diet, Hugo not only feels better but also enjoys the process of discovering healthy foods, showing that healthy choices can also be joyful.
Real-World Application: Children learn that making healthy choices does not have to be boring but can be an enjoyable and fulfilling part of life.