Jesus and the Very Best Birthday
What’s inside...
The book 'Jesus and the Very Best Birthday' by S Griffin likely tells a story that connects the celebration of a birthday with the teachings or story of Jesus. The narrative may aim to impart moral lessons, spiritual insights, or a retelling of a biblical event in a way that is accessible and engaging for children. It could explore themes such as giving, gratitude, and the significance of Jesus in the context of a birthday celebration. The book encourages reader retention by asking questions and urging children to identify key elements in the stories.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a birthday very special, like in the story?
How did the characters show kindness and love during the celebration?
If you were at the birthday in the story, what gift would you bring and why?
How can we make our family celebrations filled with joy and caring like in the book?
What is one thing you would like to do on your next birthday after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own favorite birthday memory to help your child connect personally with the story. Encourage your child to imagine themselves within the story, asking them what role they might play or how they might feel in similar situations. Highlight the themes of kindness, joy, and community celebration from the book, and connect these to real-life family events. Revisit the story on your child’s birthday to make the themes even more relevant and impactful. Use expressive reading to bring the story to life during read-aloud sessions, adapting your tone to match the festive or heartfelt moments in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Generosity
Explanation: The story showcases the act of giving without expecting anything in return, emphasizing the joy in sharing with others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their toys, snacks, or time with friends and family, understanding that kindness is its own reward.
Example Lesson: The importance of community
Explanation: The book highlights celebrating important events surrounded by loved ones, illustrating the support and love found in a community.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in family gatherings or community events to foster a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: In the story, characters express their gratitude for the gifts and presence of others, teaching the value of being thankful.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice saying 'thank you' more often and learn to appreciate not just material gifts but also the people around them and their efforts.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Characters demonstrate understanding and consideration for each other’s feelings, which helps in nurturing emotional intelligence.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to recognize emotions in themselves and others, improving their ability to interact compassionately in social situations.
Example Lesson: Celebrating milestones
Explanation: The book underscores the significance of commemorating special occasions, linking them to personal growth and happiness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and look forward to significant moments, whether big or small, and understand how they mark progress and joy in life.