Jake's Dinner
What’s inside...
Join Jake as he prepares for an unforgettable dinner that turns into a magical adventure! Based on the CBBC TV series, Alphablocks, this pack encourages early reading with 4 fiction books suitable for children aged 4-6. Bug Club Phonics, a Department for Education-approved program, provides a strong foundation in phonics with research-based methods. These 100% decodable books are matched to phonics phases taught in school, supporting children from nursery to Year 1. Helpful notes and ideas for activities before, during, and after reading are included in each book to enhance understanding and engagement.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Jake felt when he had to try the new food, and why?
What would you have done if you were in Jake’s place at dinner?
Can you think of a time you tried something new like Jake? What was that experience like?
Why is it important to try new things, even if we think we might not like them?
How did Jake’s family help him feel comfortable at dinner?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences by discussing a time they tried new food or faced a similar situation.
Emphasize the feelings and decisions of the protagonist, Jake, to help your child understand and articulate their own emotions in similar scenarios.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different scenarios in the story to develop their creative thinking and empathy.
Encourage your child to express what they liked or didn't like about the story, promoting critical thinking and personal expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: In 'Jake's Dinner,' the main character, Jake, learns to share his meal with his friends, which ultimately leads to a more enjoyable dinner experience for everyone.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their toys, snacks, or school supplies with peers, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Example Lesson: Trying New Foods
Explanation: Throughout the book, Jake is hesitant to try new dishes but finds them delicious once he does. This encourages children to be open to new experiences.
Real-World Application: This can help children be more adventurous in their eating habits, trying new foods at home or in school without prior judgment.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Jake's positive interactions with his friends around the dinner table show the importance of building and maintaining friendships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture relationships with their friends, understanding that social interactions can enrich their lives.
Example Lesson: Expressing Gratitude
Explanation: At the end of the meal, Jake thanks his friends for the company and the food, teaching the importance of gratitude.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice saying 'thank you' in everyday situations, whether at school, at home, or during play, cultivating an attitude of gratitude.