On This Airplane
What’s inside...
On this airplane, a young family embarks on a journey to their new home, encountering a variety of passengers along the way, including a bookworm, a businessperson, tourists, crying babies, and daydreamers. Each passenger has their own unique story and destination, making the trip an interesting and diverse experience. This simple and moving book is perfect for fans of 'Last Stop on Market Street'.
Discussion points
What do you think it feels like to fly in an airplane for the first time?
If you could meet any passenger on this airplane, who would you choose and why?
How do you think the airplane is able to fly in the sky?
Can you imagine a new destination you'd like to visit? What would it be like?
What other ways do you think people can travel around the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to describe their ideal airplane adventure.
Foster empathy by discussing the feelings and experiences of various passengers in the book.
Engage in a fun learning activity by researching how airplanes fly and sharing the information together.
Promote global awareness by exploring different countries or cities that could be airplane destinations and discuss their cultures and landmarks.
Build communication skills by taking turns sharing stories about your own memorable trips or dream vacations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'On This Airplane', children encounter characters from diverse backgrounds, each with unique stories and perspectives. As the characters interact, the narrative subtly teaches the importance of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to listen and understand their friends' feelings and viewpoints, fostering healthier and more inclusive relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and asking questions
Explanation: The book features scenes where characters explore their curiosity by asking questions about each other’s lives, encouraging young readers to appreciate the learning process.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage actively in learning environments like school or during conversations, enhancing their cognitive and social skills.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to new situations
Explanation: As the story unfolds, characters onboard the airplane encounter various unexpected scenarios. The story highlights how they adapt to these changes, promoting flexibility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more adaptable in their daily interactions and when faced with new or unfamiliar situations, reducing anxiety and building resilience.
Example Lesson: The value of sharing stories
Explanation: Throughout the journey, characters share their personal stories, which not only entertains but also educates others around them. This illustrates the power of storytelling in fostering community and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to share their own stories and listen to others, whether at home or in school, strengthening communication skills and emotional intelligence.