My Parents Won't Stop Talking!
What’s inside...
A child's plans are ruined when her parents have the gall to stop to talk to the neighbors in My Parents Won't Stop Talking!, a laugh-out-loud picture book about patience by Emma Hunsinger and Tillie Walden. It’s time to go to the park, and Molly can’t wait! It’s going to be awesome and amazing and— OH NO! The neighbors have spotted her moms, and now they’re talking. A lot. And everything they say is boring. Minutes feel like hours, hours feel like days, and days feel like eons . . . Will her parents ever stop talking?! This is a clever, irreverent take on a universal childhood dilemma, written and illustrated by two stars in the comics world.
Discussion points
How do you feel when you want to say something but adults are talking?
What are some ways you could politely interrupt a conversation?
Can you think of a time when listening was very important? What happened?
How do you think the story would change if the parents listened more?
What are some things you wish adults knew about how you feel during conversations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child about a time they felt unheard and share a similar experience of your own.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they would feel in a similar situation.
Encourage your child to think of different outcomes based on different reactions from the characters.
After reading, discuss the importance of communication and ways to express oneself politely.
Relate the book's scenarios to real-life family situations, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: The child in the book waits for their parents to stop talking, demonstrating the importance of patience in social interactions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to wait their turn to speak during conversations, both in school and at home.
Example Lesson: Respect for others' conversations
Explanation: Observing their parents' prolonged discussions, the child learns to respect others' need to communicate and share.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value listening as much as speaking, fostering respectful communication in group settings.
Example Lesson: The value of communication
Explanation: Through the parents’ extensive talking, the narrative shows the pivotal role communication plays in understanding and relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their thoughts and feelings more effectively, aiding in emotional development and conflict resolution.
Example Lesson: Understanding adult concerns
Explanation: The child begins to understand the complexity of adult conversations, gaining insight into more mature topics.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy and understanding towards the issues and concerns adults face, promoting maturity.