Princess Cupcake Jones Won't Go to School
#1 in Princess Cupcake Jones Series
What’s inside...
Princess Cupcake Jones, the modern-day princess who loves her tutu and playing with her toys, is about to begin school . . . but says, 'I won't go!' Cupcake tries everything to avoid her first day—from pretending to be sick to even hiding! However, Mom stays one step ahead of her. Only after arriving at school and meeting a new friend does Cupcake realize that school might not be as scary as she thought. The book features a special word ('love') hidden in each illustration.
Discussion points
Why do you think Princess Cupcake Jones doesn’t want to go to school? How does she feel about it?
What are some ways that Princess Cupcake Jones's mother helps her feel better about going to school? Can you think of a time when someone helped you feel better?
How does Princess Cupcake Jones make new friends at school? What are some ways you make new friends?
What does Princess Cupcake Jones learn at the end of the story? How do you think going to school helps her grow?
If you could give Princess Cupcake Jones advice before her first day of school, what would you tell her?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and encouraging tone when discussing the book to create a safe space for your child to express their feelings about school.
Relate the story to your child's own experiences with school or any new challenges they are facing to make the conversation more relevant.
Ask follow-up questions to your child’s responses to encourage deeper thinking and connection with the story's themes.
Praise your child for sharing their thoughts and feelings, reinforcing the importance of open communication and self-expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear of new experiences
Explanation: Princess Cupcake Jones expresses her fears about going to school for the first time, which is a common concern for many children.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to articulate their fears about new experiences and understand that it's okay to feel anxious. They can be encouraged to share their feelings with trusted adults to find support and reassurance.
Example Lesson: The importance of education
Explanation: Throughout the book, the value of going to school is highlighted through the activities and learning opportunities presented to Princess Cupcake Jones.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to appreciate the role of education in their lives. Parents can discuss how school helps in learning new things and growing intellectually.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and independence
Explanation: Princess Cupcake Jones prepares for school, which demonstrates taking responsibility. She ultimately decides to go to school, showing personal growth and independence.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of being responsible for their own belongings and decisions. It can encourage them to take small steps towards personal independence.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: At first, Cupcake is reluctant and creates excuses to avoid going to school, but she eventually finds the courage to attend and enjoy her day.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that it's normal to face obstacles, but overcoming them with courage is crucial. They can be encouraged to persist through challenges in school and other areas.
Example Lesson: Making friends and social skills
Explanation: In the story, Princess Cupcake Jones makes new friends at school which helps her enjoy her time there.
Real-World Application: The book can serve as a conversation starter for parents to discuss the importance of making friends and developing good social skills, helping children feel more comfortable in social settings.