Oakley The Octopus Learns To Dance
What’s inside...
Oakley The Octopus Learns To Dance is a rhyming story for children who want to overcome their fears and learn to dance. With its simple and fun illustrations, it is guaranteed to be a great book for kids to read over and over - with laughter on every page! Engage your child with a story that will inspire them to reach for their dreams and try new things. You will bond through reading and sharing as you both learn that anyone can dance! Let this fun story show you how an octopus takes rhythm into her heart and shakes off feelings of fear and shyness. This is a great short story that teaches kids the importance of perseverance and self-esteem that will capture your little one's heart. If you're feeling bored on a dreary day, this book is perfect for the family as it will brighten up everyone's spirit! This book reminds us that it is both empowering and enjoyable to do what you love. This children's story is one where with persistence anything is possible. The attitude of the main character overcomes her insecurities, self-doubt, and fear to bring out an eagerness for fun and adventure.
Discussion points
How did Oakley feel when he first tried to dance, and how did his feelings change by the end of the story?
What did Oakley learn about practice and perseverance?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like Oakley? How did it go?
Why do you think Oakley's friends encouraged him, and how did that help him?
What does Oakley's story teach us about friendship and support?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize expressive reading: Change your tone and volume when Oakley feels different emotions, to help your child connect to his journey.
Ask predictive questions: Before turning the page, ask your child what they think will happen next, encouraging them to think about the storyline and characters' emotions.
Relate to personal experiences: Share a personal story where you learned something new and discuss the emotions and outcomes connected with it.
Discuss the illustrations: Talk about how the colors and drawings in the book change with the story, and ask what your child thinks about them.
Praise effort: Emphasize the importance of trying and perseverance, just like Oakley, and praise your child for their efforts in their activities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Oakley the octopus struggles to learn a new dance but keeps trying despite initial failures. This illustrates the importance of persistence when facing difficult tasks.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of continuing to try even when they find a task challenging, whether it's learning a new skill in sports or solving difficult math problems.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: As Oakley practices and receives encouragement, he becomes more confident in his dancing abilities. This transformation highlights the impact of positive reinforcement and self-belief.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to believe in themselves and their capabilities, boosting their self-esteem in school presentations or new social settings.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Oakley receives help from his friends who offer tips and encouragement, showcasing how teamwork can aid in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can see the importance of working with others to achieve goals, applicable in group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Each sea creature has a unique way of dancing, teaching Oakley—and young readers—that individual differences are valuable and should be celebrated.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate diversity and express their uniqueness confidently, promoting inclusivity in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Joy of Learning
Explanation: Oakley's journey of learning to dance is filled with fun and excitement, conveying that learning new things can be enjoyable.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to approach learning with enthusiasm, whether picking up a new hobby or studying a new topic at school.