My Early Surprise: A Bedtime Story For Preemies
on Goodreads (22)
What’s inside...
Are you looking for a colorful, rhythmic story to read to your preemie? Are you a family member or friend of a preemie parent? Are you a neonatologist or a NICU nurse searching for a fun story to recommend to parents of preemies? Were you born premature and are looking for a creative way to explain your birth story to your child? Are you a parent looking for an engaging, diverse, and entertaining story to read to your little one? If you have answered YES to any of these questions, then yes, this BOOK IS FOR YOU! Every life is precious, but those who come into this world too early, fighting from the very moment they are born, are special in a way that can only be understood by their mothers. The worry and concern coupled with the inability to hold one's own child and help them through their fight eventually gives way to joy and pride. The will of a child to survive and win at life is remarkable. My Early Surprise: A Bedtime Story for Preemies demonstrates the courage of preterm babies and serves as a reminder to these children, and all children, that they can overcome anything they set their minds to. Charting moments of joy, fear, uncertainty, and relief, this bedtime read will help comfort and inspire children in times of doubt and insecurity.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the little preemie felt when they experienced their first surprise?
What are some ways the characters showed kindness and care to each other?
Can you imagine what you would do if you were in a similar situation as the preemie?
Why do you think surprises are important in the story?
How did the story make you feel about helping and supporting others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story by relating to the experiences of the preemie.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book that they found moving or exciting, and discuss the emotions in that scene.
Use the book’s theme of surprise to plan a small, fun surprise with your child, connecting the story to real life.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness, using examples from the book to highlight how the characters cared for each other.
Praise your child for insightful answers, reinforcing their understanding and emotional growth.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The story portrays the journey of a premature baby overcoming early challenges. Through gentle narrative and soothing illustrations, we see the baby’s progress, instilling a sense of resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing and overcoming challenges is a part of growth, encouraging them to persist through their own difficulties, whether in learning new skills or adjusting to changes.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: As the family members and medical staff in the book show constant care and concern for the baby’s well-being, children understand the importance of empathy.
Real-World Application: This helps children grasp the importance of showing kindness and understanding towards others who are facing challenges, fostering a supportive community spirit.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The book highlights the collective efforts of the family coming together to support the baby, demonstrating strong family bonding and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of family support and unity, encouraging them to contribute positively in their own family settings and appreciate their loved ones.
Example Lesson: Hope
Explanation: Despite uncertainties, the book presents a positive outlook, with the family hopeful for the baby’s future, teaching children the power of hope.
Real-World Application: Instills in children a positive perspective towards life’s uncertainties, helping them remain optimistic during their own times of doubt or change.
Example Lesson: Celebration of Achievements
Explanation: Each of the baby’s milestones is celebrated, regardless of how small they may seem, highlighting the significance of recognizing and celebrating personal achievements.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to acknowledge and take pride in their progress and milestones, fostering a sense of accomplishment and positive self-esteem.