My Recital Day
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Christine Leonardi-Kramer, also known as “Miss Christine,” has dedicated over 50 years to the dance world as a performer, educator, and author. Having learned from dance icons and taught in New York City, she traveled the world with her act “Babe” before becoming the owner of “Great Expectations – A Dance Center” in Staten Island, a renowned dance school for 35 years. Miss Christine also contributed as a resident choreographer for Wagner High School Theater Department from 2009-2020. Now residing in Staten Island, NY, she continues to teach dance and Zumba classes, and is working on her next book, inspired by her students. Her book, “My Recital Day,” captures the excitement and challenges of a dancer during a performance, providing an enjoyable read for young dreamers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did you feel when the main character was getting ready for their recital? Can you relate to their emotions?
What do you think about the way the main character handled their nerves? What would you do in a similar situation?
Why is it important to practice before a big event like a recital?
How did the main character's friends and family help them prepare and succeed?
How would you encourage a friend who was feeling nervous about a recital or a big event?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own feelings about performing or trying new activities, relating it to the character's experiences in the book.
Discuss the importance of preparation and practice, taking examples from the book to highlight how it helped the character succeed.
Praise efforts, not just outcomes. Emphasize the process of learning and growing, just as the main character did.
Share personal experiences with nerves and how you manage them to help your child connect their experiences with their own.
Create a supportive environment that celebrates trying new things, just as the character's supportive network did in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges leading up to their recital but continues to practice and prepare, demonstrating determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persisting through difficulties to achieve goals, whether in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: The value of support from loved ones
Explanation: Family and friends provide encouragement and support to the main character throughout the book, showcasing the importance of a supportive network.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the importance of giving and receiving support in their social interactions and developing strong, supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Expressing and managing emotions
Explanation: The protagonist experiences a range of emotions as the recital approaches, and learns to manage them effectively.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to express their feelings in a healthy way and equips them with strategies to handle emotions like nervousness or excitement.
Example Lesson: Preparing for public performances
Explanation: The book details the steps the protagonist takes to ready themselves for the recital, highlighting the importance of preparation.
Real-World Application: Children learn how to prepare for school presentations, public speaking, and other performance opportunities.
Example Lesson: Celebrating personal achievements
Explanation: After the recital, there is a clear sense of accomplishment, teaching the reader to take pride in their achievements.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to set personal goals and celebrate their own successes, big or small.