Make Your Bed with Skipper the Seal (Skipper the Seal, 1)
#1 of 2 in Skipper the Seal Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (149)
What’s inside...
A seal becomes a Navy SEAL in this children's adaptation of the #1 New York Times bestselling Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven. As Skipper the seal embarks on Navy SEAL training, he and his hardworking friends learn much more than how to pass a swimming test or how to dive off a ship. To be a great SEAL, you also have to take risks, deal with failure, and persevere through tough times—just as you do in life. (And always remember to make your bed!) In this entertaining children’s adaptation of his #1 New York Times bestseller, Admiral William H. McRaven shares life lessons from Navy SEAL training and encourages young readers to become their best selves.
Discussion points
How did Skipper the Seal feel when he completed his tasks? Can you think of a time when you felt the same?
What do you think makes Skipper a good friend and leader?
Why is it important to make your bed and keep your space tidy?
How do Skipper's actions inspire others around him? Can you think of ways you can inspire others?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey Skipper's emotions, emphasizing enthusiasm and pride in his accomplishments to help your child connect with these feelings.
After reading the book, engage your child by asking them to demonstrate how they would make their bed or complete a similar task, connecting the story to real life.
Discuss the leadership qualities displayed by Skipper, encouraging your child to think of ways they can apply these traits in their daily interactions.
Connect the lessons in the book to familial routines or tasks, helping your child see the relevance of Skipper's actions in their own life.
Encourage your child to draw or describe their favorite scene from the book, promoting creativity and reinforcing narrative recall.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Discipline and Responsibility
Explanation: Skipper the Seal teaches children the importance of making their bed each morning. This simple task represents taking charge of their own space and starting the day with a positive achievement.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take responsibility for their own room and personal belongings, fostering a sense of accomplishment and order from an early age.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Skipper faces challenges but shows perseverance by not giving up. This illustrates the value of persistence when facing difficult tasks or situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to continue working hard despite obstacles or failures, building resilience and determination in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Skipper the Seal works together with his friends to accomplish tasks. This emphasizes the importance of collaborating and supporting others in achieving common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to cooperate with siblings, classmates, and friends, understanding that teamwork can lead to success in group settings.
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: In the story, following instructions is crucial for Skipper to succeed in his tasks. This teaches the importance of listening carefully and adhering to guidelines set by authority figures.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of obeying rules and instructions at home, in school, or during extracurricular activities, ensuring their safety and success.
Example Lesson: Time Management
Explanation: Skipper the Seal demonstrates the value of managing his time effectively by prioritizing tasks. This helps him achieve more throughout the day.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to prioritize important tasks such as homework or chores, helping them use their time efficiently and developing crucial time management skills.