I Want My Mummy!
#1 in Ms. Frogbottom's Field Trips Series
What’s inside...
Magic School Bus meets The Magic Tree House in this first installment of a new school-based chapter book series by bestselling author Nancy Krulik. When their teacher takes them to Egypt, will this class be able to break a mummy's curse? Learning is an adventure in Ms. Frogbottom's class, because she's got a magic map one that takes her students all over the world to battle with mythical monsters no one believes are real. All Ms. Frogbottom has to do is take out the map, tap a country, and SHAZAAM! off they go to a place somewhere far, far away. When Ms. Frogbottom whisks the class away to Egypt, they not only come face to face with a mummy, but have to solve the riddle of his ancient curse! Bestselling and beloved author Nancy Krulik ingeniously approaches geography in a new way, as the kids learn about the places they visit while fighting, fleeing, or in some cases rescuing monsters.
Discussion points
How did the main character feel when they couldn't find their mummy? Can you remember a time when you felt the same?
What are some of the ways the main character tried to find their mummy? Do you think those were good ideas?
Why is it important to stay close to a parent or guardian in unfamiliar places?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different setting, like a park or a zoo?
What would you do if you were in a similar situation? Who would you ask for help?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening to fully engage with your child’s responses, reflecting back their feelings and thoughts.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the story and their own experiences, which can help deepen their understanding of the characters' emotions.
Discuss the importance of safety and strategies for what to do when they feel lost or scared.
Allow your child to suggest an alternate ending to the story, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Reinforce the lesson from the book by summarizing it together and discussing how it can be applied in real life situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding emotions
Explanation: The protagonist in 'I Want My Mummy!' experiences a variety of emotions as they navigate their day without their mother, helping children identify and understand different feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and express their own emotions more clearly, aiding emotional development and communication skills.
Example Lesson: Coping with separation anxiety
Explanation: The story addresses the child's fear and anxiety when separated from a parent, showcasing strategies to overcome these feelings.
Real-World Application: It teaches children how to handle situations like the first day at school or being away from parents, making them more resilient and independent.
Example Lesson: Importance of support systems
Explanation: Throughout the book, supportive characters help the protagonist feel secure and loved, highlighting the value of having a support system.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of seeking help and relying on friends and family during tough times, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing fears
Explanation: The character shows bravery and resilience by facing their fears during their time apart from the mother, encouraging personal growth.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and challenges, enhancing their problem-solving skills and confidence.
Example Lesson: Embracing new experiences
Explanation: As the protagonist engages in new activities throughout the book, they learn to adapt and enjoy new situations, teaching adaptability.
Real-World Application: This prepares children to embrace change positively, encouraging growth and development in new environments or experiences.