Old MacDonald had a Spooky Farm
What’s inside...
Old MacDonald had a spooky farm E-I-E-I-O! This special Halloween themed version of the popular nursery rhyme is perfect for children aged 3 and up. With beautiful full-color illustrations, the book features fun and cute characters like ghosts and witches. It is an ideal read for parents to share with their children for some Halloween fun.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the spooky farm and why?
How do you think Old MacDonald felt when he saw the spooky creatures? What would you do if you were him?
Why do you think the animals were behaving strangely? What can we learn from their behavior?
How did the spooky elements change the farm? Did it make it more exciting or scary, and why?
If you could create a spooky animal for the farm, what would it be like and what would it do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to draw or describe an additional scene they might add to the story. Discuss the emotions and actions of the characters to understand their perspectives. This helps in developing empathy and creative thinking. Use expressive reading techniques, changing your voice for different characters, to make the story more engaging and fun. Lastly, relate the spooky elements to Halloween or other cultural stories they might know to deepen their understanding and interest.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: In 'Old MacDonald had a Spooky Farm,' the farm is inhabited by a variety of unconventional and fantastical creatures, showing children that differences are to be celebrated, not feared.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and accept the differences in people they meet, understanding that diversity enriches our lives.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Old MacDonald encounters various quirky challenges with his spooky farm animals. He addresses these creatively, teaching children the value of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children approach their own obstacles with creativity, enhancing their ability to find unique solutions in daily tasks and challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage and overcoming fears
Explanation: The protagonist faces eerie and unusual situations bravely, showing that fear can be conquered with a positive attitude.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their personal fears with bravery, whether it’s trying something new or dealing with life's unexpected moments.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Old MacDonald is depicted as a responsible caretaker of his spooky farm, highlighting the importance of taking care of those who depend on us.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be more responsible at home or in school, taking care of their belongings, pets, or helping out in family duties.
Example Lesson: Joy in labor
Explanation: The book portrays work as enjoyable and fulfilling through the joyful portrayal of farm life, even if it’s a spooky one.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of hard work and finding pleasure in their responsibilities and tasks, fostering a healthy work ethic.