Jed and Roy McCoy, A Christmas Story (Cecil and Friends)
Cecil And Friends Series
on Goodreads (16)
What’s inside...
Brothers Jed and Roy have been fighting for years, but when an angel announces that a child has been born who will bring peace on earth, the two shepherds, filled with joy, return to their flocks and begin working together in harmony.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Jed learned about friendship in the story?
How did Jed and Roy McCoy show kindness to each other?
Why do you think it's important to share, especially during Christmas?
How would you have solved the conflict between Jed and Roy?
What was your favorite part of the story and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Let your child express their thoughts freely, and encourage them by showing genuine interest in their ideas.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to delve deeper into their understanding and feelings about the story.
Discuss the importance of the themes like friendship and sharing, relating them to your child’s real-life experiences.
Use facial expressions and voice modulation to make the discussion lively and engaging, mirroring the excitement in the story.
End the conversation by asking your child how they might apply the lessons from the book in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and sharing
Explanation: In the story, Jed learns the joy of sharing Christmas with Roy McCoy, even though they had been rivals. This demonstrates the power of sharing and kindness during the festive season.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their toys and time with siblings or friends, fostering a more cooperative and joyful environment at home and school.
Example Lesson: Resolving conflicts peacefully
Explanation: The characters in the book resolve their differences and celebrate Christmas together, showcasing peaceful conflict resolution.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using words to express their feelings and resolve disputes with friends or siblings without resorting to anger.
Example Lesson: The spirit of forgiveness
Explanation: Jed and Roy McCoy's ability to forgive each other for past misunderstandings is a central theme. This illustrates the importance of forgiveness.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice forgiveness, improving their relationships and reducing personal grievances.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The book highlights how Jed and Roy McCoy's friendship blooms despite initial rivalry, emphasizing that friendship can overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to befriend others, even those who appear different from them, enriching their social experiences and diversity understanding.