Polar Bear Paddle
Storytime classics Series
on Goodreads (99)
What’s inside...
Alfie the Polar Bear is unable to swim in the sea like his friends and can only paddle in the baby pool. With the encouragement and help from his new friends, he strives to learn how to do the Polar Bear Paddle. His brothers also attempt to master the swimming technique. This book is part of the QED Storytime series which introduces young children to the joys of reading and sharing stories. It also includes helpful notes for parents and teachers, making it a great resource for early childhood education.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Little Polar Bear
Mother Polar Bear
Discussion points
What do you think made the polar bear want to paddle across the river?
How do you think the polar bear felt when he was trying to paddle?
Can you imagine what it's like to be in a cold place like where the polar bear lives?
Why do you think the other animals helped the polar bear?
What would you do if you were there with the polar bear?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to share their feelings about the polar bear’s journey, relating it to any of their own experiences of trying something challenging.
Discuss the theme of friendship and cooperation in the book, asking your child about times they’ve helped someone or been helped.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to mimic the sounds and feelings in the story, making the reading experience more immersive and engaging for your child.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book. This can help them express creatively what they’ve understood and liked about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Polar Bear Paddle,' the young bear learns the importance of working together with friends to achieve a goal, as they paddle through the icy waters.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in team activities at school or in sports, learning to cooperate and value each other’s contributions.
Example Lesson: Courage to Try New Things
Explanation: The protagonist, despite being initially hesitant, bravely tries to paddle which is a new skill for him.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to new experiences, whether it’s trying a new sport, or learning a new subject, promoting growth and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the young polar bear faces various challenges in the water, but finds ways to overcome them, showing resourcefulness and quick thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to think on their feet and come up with solutions when they face obstacles, be it in their studies or in everyday problems.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: Despite the cold and the initial struggles with paddling, the bear continues to try and eventually succeeds, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence and not giving up easily, especially when facing difficult tasks or situations.
Example Lesson: Enjoyment in Learning
Explanation: The joyful expressions and the fun interactions among the characters as they learn to paddle highlight the pleasure that can be found in acquiring new skills.
Real-World Application: Children can be reminded to find joy and excitement in the learning process itself, making education a delightful experience rather than a chore.