Isabella, The Cow Who Wanted To Sing (ELM Grove Farm)
#1 in ELM Grove Farm Series
What’s inside...
Isabella, the cow, could not sing and was very sad. She wandered into a green meadow where she met Mrs. Meadowlark, who was singing. Then Mrs. Butterfly joined them and encouraged Isabella, leading to a surprising discovery for Isabella.
Discussion points
What do you think made Isabella want to sing, and how did it make her feel?
If you were a friend of Isabella, how would you help her achieve her dream?
What are some challenges Isabella faced, and how did she overcome them?
What can we learn from Isabella's determination and creativity?
How do you think the other animals on the farm felt about Isabella's singing?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading the story, pause at key moments to ask your child how they might feel in Isabella’s situation, enhancing empathy and emotional understanding.
Encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite part of the story, which helps them connect more deeply with the characters and events.
Discuss the various emotions Isabella experiences throughout the book, asking your child to share times they have felt similar emotions.
After finishing the book, have a 'story reflection' time where you both discuss the main message of the story and how it applies to your child’s own life.
Use Isabella’s various attempts and failures to teach resilience by asking your child how they think Isabella felt after each try and what kept her going.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursuing dreams
Explanation: Isabella, despite being a cow, dreams of being a singer and shows determination and courage in her pursuit.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of following their passions and striving to achieve their dreams, regardless of obstacles.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and diversity
Explanation: Isabella's unique dream teaches the other farm animals to appreciate and embrace differences among each other.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to appreciate diversity in their peers and promote inclusivity in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Isabella faces skepticism from other farm animals but remains resilient and continues to pursue her singing.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of perseverance and resilience in the face of doubt or ridicule.
Example Lesson: Self-expression
Explanation: Through singing, Isabella expresses her true self, demonstrating the joy and fulfillment that come from self-expression.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of expressing themselves creatively and finding their own unique voice.
Example Lesson: Support and encouragement
Explanation: The support Isabella eventually receives from her friends on the farm boosts her confidence and contributes to her success.
Real-World Application: Children see how offering support and encouragement to others can positively affect their peers’ confidence and accomplishments.