Josephine Wants to Dance
What’s inside...
Josephine is no ordinary kangaroo; she loves to dance more than anything. Inspired by the various animals and nature around her, she learns different dance styles. One day, she sees a ballet class and decides to show everyone her unique skills. Despite the challenges, Josephine's determination leads to a memorable performance that captivates everyone. This charming tale by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself and following your dreams.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Josephine dreams about when she thinks of dancing?
How do you think Josephine felt when others told her she couldn't dance? Have you ever felt that way?
What can we learn from Josephine's persistence and passion for dancing?
Why is it important to support and believe in our friends' dreams, like the kangaroos did for Josephine?
How do you think the story would change if Josephine gave up on her dreams? Why is it important to keep trying?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story by relating to their own experiences of trying something new or being discouraged.
Discuss the importance of following one's passion and dreams, just as Josephine does, and explore what dreams your child might have.
Point out the supportive roles of other characters in the book, emphasizing the value of friendship and encouragement.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings for the story, enhancing their creativity and understanding of narrative consequence.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to make the story's emotions and themes come alive, engaging your child more deeply.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursue your dreams
Explanation: Josephine, despite being a kangaroo and not fitting the typical dancer mold, dreams of dancing. Throughout the story, she shows determination and practices to achieve her dream.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of following their passions, regardless of others' expectations. They can be encouraged to try out activities they are interested in, even if they are different from what their peers are doing.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Josephine faces various challenges and naysayers who doubt her ability to dance because she is a kangaroo. Yet, she remains steadfast and proves them wrong.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of perseverance and resilience when they encounter obstacles or criticism in their pursuits. It teaches them to keep striving towards their goals despite setbacks.
Example Lesson: Inclusivity and acceptance
Explanation: The story culminates with Josephine being accepted and appreciated for her unique dancing style by the other dancers and the audience, promoting a message of inclusion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of accepting and celebrating differences in others, promoting a more inclusive attitude towards classmates and friends who may have different interests or abilities.
Example Lesson: Creativity and self-expression
Explanation: Josephine uses her unique abilities to create a special kind of dance that amazes the audience, showcasing the beauty of creative expression.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and express their creativity in various forms, be it through dance, art, writing, or any other medium that interests them.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: By the end of the book, other animals join Josephine in her dance, demonstrating how working together can create something beautiful.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of cooperative effort and how teamwork can lead to achieving great results, encouraging them to participate in group activities and appreciate the contributions of others.