Never Kiss an Alligator!
on Goodreads (25)
What’s inside...
Learn about alligators in this informative photographic picture book. Starting with the title warning, this explores the habitat and behaviors of alligators and teaches readers why we should respect these incredible animals. Illustrated with incredible full-color photos, this is a fun and informative introduction for early readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the author chose an alligator as the main character?
What do you think the alligator learns by the end of the story?
How did you feel when the alligator wanted to be kissed, and why?
What would you do if you met an alligator like the one in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the story more vivid and engaging.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in the story before turning the page.
Discuss the importance of setting boundaries, similar to how characters in the book interact with the alligator.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by asking if they've ever wanted something that wasn't good for them, like the alligator.
Encourage your child to draw their favorite scene from the book, which can spark further discussion about the story's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding boundaries
Explanation: The story of 'Never Kiss an Alligator!' explores the idea of setting personal boundaries through intriguing interactions between the characters.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of respecting others' space and boundaries, thereby applying this understanding in interactions at school or during play.
Example Lesson: Cautious curiosity
Explanation: The book encourages curiosity but emphasizes cautiousness, portraying how the alligator's behavior shifts when boundaries are crossed.
Real-World Application: Helps children balance their natural curiosity with caution, which is essential when they explore new environments or meet new people.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Through the storyline, children see direct consequences of interactions with the alligator, which serves as a learning pivot.
Real-World Application: This parallels with teaching children that all actions have consequences, encouraging them to think before they act in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Embracing differences
Explanation: The book showcases different characters, each with unique traits, teaching children to appreciate diversity.
Real-World Application: Instills the value of embracing and respecting differences in others which they encounter in multi-cultural settings like schools.