Mama, Will it Snow Tonight?
What’s inside...
Three mothers—a fox, a hare, and a human—and their little ones eagerly await the first snowfall of winter. The last autumn leaves have fallen, and the landscape is ready for the cold season. Each evening, the young ones ask their mothers if it will snow, and although it may not happen immediately, the mothers reassure them that it will snow soon when the moon looks just right.
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Child
Mama
Discussion points
How do you think the animals in the story feel about the snow coming?
What are some things you like to do in the snow, like the characters in the book?
Why do you think Mama Rabbit thought it might snow tonight?
What can we learn from how the animals prepare for winter?
How does the snowy landscape change the world in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, you might ask your child what they know about snow and how they think animals might prepare for it.
Encourage your child to describe the snowy settings using their own words, fostering their descriptive skills.
After reading the book, discuss the importance of weather patterns and how they affect both humans and animals.
Link themes from the book to your child's personal experiences with snow, enhancing their personal connection to the story.
Use the book as an opportunity to plan a family activity that relates to winter or snow, reinforcing the theme and promoting family bonding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Anticipation
Explanation: Throughout 'Mama, Will it Snow Tonight?', the child eagerly awaits the potential snowfall, demonstrating the excitement and patience involved in awaiting natural events.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the value of patience and the joy of anticipation in everyday situations, such as waiting for a special event or the change of seasons.
Example Lesson: Understanding Nature and Seasons
Explanation: The book explores the signs and science behind changing seasons and weather patterns, educating children about winter and the conditions for snow.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children understand and observe the world around them, enhancing their curiosity and awareness of the environment.
Example Lesson: Parent-Child Bonding
Explanation: The dialogue between the mother and child in the story highlights a nurturing and informative relationship, showing how families can connect through simple conversations.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to engage more openly in conversations with their parents, strengthening family bonds and communication skills.
Example Lesson: Hope and Optimism
Explanation: The child’s hopeful attitude towards the potential snowfall instills a sense of optimism.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remain hopeful and positive about future events, regardless of the outcome, fostering resilience and a positive mindset.