Merry Christmas, Stinky Face
#2 in Stinky Face Series
What’s inside...
Stinky Face loves Christmastime, but he has plenty of concerns about things that could go wrong. From worries about the Christmas tree blowing away to Santa's book falling off while flying his sleigh, Stinky Face thinks of all the possibilities. In addition, he wonders about Santa's chapped lips and the sack of toys ripping. As always, Mama lovingly addresses each of her child's concerns, and as an extra safety measure, Stinky Face leaves Santa lip balm and duct tape. With cheerful and lighthearted images, the book humorously addresses Stinky Face's anxieties.
Discussion points
Why do you think Stinky Face has so many questions about Christmas?
How do you think the mother feels when answering all of Stinky Face's questions?
What was your favorite part of the story and why?
If you could ask Santa one question, what would it be?
How do you think Stinky Face's imagination affects his view of Christmas?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own silly questions about Christmas, fostering creativity and engaging their imagination.
Use the mother's responses in the book to demonstrate patience and understanding, highlighting the importance of support in a child’s exploration and learning.
Discuss the emotions felt by Stinky Face and his mother, promoting emotional intelligence and empathy in your child.
Link the story to your own family's holiday traditions, making connections that enhance personal meaning and relevance.
After reading, ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can help with recall and gives them a chance to express their interpretation creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Questioning and Curiosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Stinky Face asks his mother a series of imaginative and curious questions about Christmas scenarios. This shows a healthy curiosity about the world.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore their own curiosity and not be afraid to ask questions, fostering a love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Unconditional Love
Explanation: Stinky Face's mother patiently answers all his questions, reassuring him of her love no matter the situation, showing that her love is unwavering.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the concept of constant support and love from their family, fostering security and confidence.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: Each of Stinky Face's questions presents a bizarre scenario, and his mother uses her creativity to solve the perceived problems.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively when faced with problems and understand that there are multiple solutions to a challenge.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Different Perspectives
Explanation: Stinky Face presents unconventional ideas about Christmas, and his mother validates his unique perspective without dismissing it.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of accepting different perspectives and nurtures open-mindedness and respect for others' views.
Example Lesson: Value of Reassurance and Support
Explanation: The mother's responses are always supportive, aimed at reassuring Stinky Face despite his outlandish worries, demonstrating the power of reassurance.
Real-World Application: Shows children the importance of offering support and reassurance to peers, which is crucial for emotional development and building healthy relationships.