Kola and the Dancing Bee
What’s inside...
After a crazy day at school, Kola narrates to his dad how he was chased by a dancing bee. Kola describes his shock and fear after being followed by the dancing bee throughout the school day. Although Kola is initially afraid of the dancing bee, it becomes clear to Kola that the dancing bee just wants a friend. Kola demonstrates empathy and inclusion as he puts aside his fear and befriends the dancing bee. This book is filled with speech and language targets, pre-literacy concepts, and social skills. Have fun learning and growing!
Age
0-12
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Kola was fascinated by the dancing bee?
How did Kola feel when he first saw the bee dance, and how can we tell?
What do you think the dance of the bee represents in the story?
How do you think the story would change if Kola ignored the bee?
What would you do if you met a dancing bee like Kola did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about bees and dance, creating a bridge to connect their existing knowledge with the story's themes.
While reading, pause at key illustrations of the bee's dance and ask your child to describe what they see and feel about the dance.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their own dance if they were to express happiness like the bee.
After reading the book, engage with your child in a 'dance' activity where they can express different emotions through creative movements.
Discuss the importance of paying attention to small wonders in nature, like Kola does with the bee, to foster appreciation and curiosity for the environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: Kola and the Dancing Bee highlights the importance of working together when Kola helps the bee find its way back to the hive, demonstrating teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied in group activities at school or in play.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The story showcases Kola overcoming his fear of bees when he decides to help the lost bee, illustrating bravery in facing one’s fears.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to face their fears, encouraging them to try new activities or stand up for themselves and others in challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Kola takes on the responsibility of helping the bee despite his initial fear, showing dedication to helping others in need.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to take responsibility for their actions and care for other living beings, promoting empathy and kindness.
Example Lesson: Curiosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Kola's curiosity about the bee’s dance leads to his learning about bee communication and their role in nature.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and learn more about the world around them, promoting a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Kola’s adventure with the bee highlights the importance of all creatures and the roles they play in our ecosystem, fostering respect for nature.
Real-World Application: This lesson can prompt children to engage in environmental conservation efforts and appreciate the natural world around them.