My Dad is a Tree
on Goodreads (323)
What’s inside...
A dad and daughter take pretending to an adorable extreme in this funny book that's perfect for Father's Day. It’s easy to be a tree, says the little girl who persuades her father to be a tree all day long, no matter what, even in the rain. The girl pretends her dad's arms are branches, his body is a trunk, and his legs are roots. Challenges arise as a bird makes a nest on his head, a squirrel hides an acorn in his pocket, and a spider builds a web under his arm, but trees don’t mind these things. This silly and sweet picture book inspires imaginative play and is a tribute to parents who will do just about anything for their kids.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the author chose a tree to represent the dad?
How do you think the tree feels about being a dad?
What are some of the ways the dad tree shows love to his children?
Can you think of a time when you felt supported like the children in the book?
If you could be any kind of tree, which one would you be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading more dynamic and engaging.
Pause after each question to give your child time to think and express their thoughts and feelings.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing similar emotions or events in their life.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can lead to a deeper discussion about the story.
Affirm your child’s responses, showing that their thoughts and feelings are valued and important.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Imagination
Explanation: The story depicts a child's imaginative play, where the dad is seen as various fun and creative objects, including a tree. This showcases the power and freedom of a child’s creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can use their imagination in play, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios and social interactions.
Example Lesson: Family Bonds
Explanation: The book highlights the strong bond between the father and child, emphasizing the support and love found in family relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can reassure children about the dependability of family support and encourage them to nurture and value their family relationships.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: By portraying the dad as a tree, the story encourages a connection to and appreciation for nature.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore, respect, and protect the natural world around them.
Example Lesson: Identity and Self-perception
Explanation: The various roles the dad assumes in the child's imaginative play also hint at the fluidity of identity and roles in a familial context.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to understand and appreciate different roles people play in their lives, promoting empathy and adaptability.
Example Lesson: Humor and Joy
Explanation: The whimsical and humorous scenarios in the book not only entertain but also show the joy found in simple moments.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to find happiness in everyday life and to approach situations with a positive and joyful attitude.