Listening for Llamas: A kindness and empathy book for children
#3 in Usborne Good Behaviour Guides Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
This charming book follows the story of a group of llamas who learn the importance of kindness and empathy through their adventures. As they interact with each other and face various challenges, they discover the value of understanding and supporting one another. This irresistible rhymed story also teaches the importance of listening.
Discussion points
How did the llamas show kindness to each other in the story?
What would you do if you were in a situation like the llamas?
How do you think the llamas felt when they helped each other?
Can you think of a time when someone was kind to you like the llamas were?
What is one way you can show empathy to your friends tomorrow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences and feelings. Ask open-ended questions that provoke more than just 'yes' or 'no' responses. Emphasize the emotional aspects of the story, and discuss the importance of understanding and caring for others. Reinforce the positive behaviors shown by the characters in the book during daily interactions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story introduces children to understanding the feelings of others through the protagonist’s journey to help a lost llama find its way back home.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize emotions in others and respond compassionately, fostering better relationships with peers and family.
Example Lesson: Kindness
Explanation: The protagonist shows acts of kindness by helping the llama, despite it being a challenge, teaching children the value of helping others.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to help others in need, enhancing their sense of community and social responsibility.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist faces various obstacles while helping the llama, demonstrating the importance of thinking critically and creatively to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in school tasks and in overcoming everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The protagonist's determination to help the llama despite difficulties instills the value of persistence and not giving up easily.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance in achieving goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: By taking on the task of returning the llama, the protagonist learns about responsibility and the rewards of fulfilling one’s duties.
Real-World Application: Promotes responsible behavior in children, encouraging them to take ownership of their tasks and duties at home or school.