Lorna Starts School
First experiences Series
What’s inside...
Join Lorna as she embarks on her exciting first day of school in 'Lorna Starts School' by Emilie Dufresne. This charming children's book captures the array of emotions and adventures that come with starting school. Through vibrant illustrations and relatable storytelling, young readers will follow Lorna as she meets new friends, learns new routines, and discovers the joy of learning. A perfect read for children about to enter school, this book reassures them of the fun and learning that awaits in the educational journey ahead. Lorna is starting a new school today. She is feeling very nervous and is worried that people will be mean to her because she is different. Lorna finds it hard at first but with the help of her basketball skills and Mark, Lorna soon begins to fit in.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Lorna feel on her first day of school and have you ever felt the same way?
What are some ways Lorna made new friends? Can you think of similar ways to make friends?
What was Lorna's favorite part of her school day? What is your favorite part and why?
Lorna learned many new things at school. What is something new you hope to learn this year?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate personal school experiences, sharing feelings and events from your own first days at school to foster a deeper connection.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about school, focusing on both excitement and anxieties they might have, providing reassurance and understanding.
Discuss the importance of friendship and strategies for making friends, reinforcing social skills and empathy.
Post-reading, engage in a creative activity, such as drawing a picture of their ideal first day of school or role-playing different school scenarios.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The story illustrates how Lorna adjusts to the new environment and routines when she starts school.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace changes and find comfort in new settings such as switching schools or meeting new friends.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Lorna makes new friends at school, demonstrating the importance of building relationships.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop social skills and understand the value of forming connections with their peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Through various school challenges, Lorna shows persistence and resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by tackling difficult tasks without giving up, whether it’s in academics, sports, or other activities.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Lorna’s experiences at school spark her curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new things.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore new topics, ask questions, and engage actively in their learning process.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: As Lorna becomes more familiar with the school environment, she gains confidence in her abilities and interactions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children to believe in themselves and their capabilities, boosting their self-esteem in various aspects of life.