Pumpkin Day!
#1 of 236 in Step into Reading Series
on Goodreads (258)
What’s inside...
The story follows a little girl named Scarecrow who loves pumpkin day, where everyone in the town picks pumpkins and makes pumpkin pies. The day is filled with fun, laughter, and friendship as Scarecrow looks forward to sharing her pumpkin pie with everyone. Meanwhile, a boy and his family visit a pumpkin patch to pick out perfect autumn gourds, carving out family time. Through these narratives, young readers learn about the life cycle of a pumpkin, the joys of community, and the warmth of sharing. The book also features a Step 1 Step into Reading early reader that encourages children who know the alphabet and are eager to begin reading with its big type, easy words, rhythmic text, and picture clues.
Discussion points
What do you think makes the pumpkin patch a special place for the characters in the story?
How do the characters in the book work together to pick pumpkins?
Can you describe how the pumpkins change throughout the book?
What would you do if you were at a pumpkin patch? Which activities would you enjoy the most?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of 'Pumpkin Day!'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the pumpkin patch using vivid words, fostering a deeper connection to the narrative.
Discuss the teamwork displayed by the characters when selecting pumpkins and relate it to real-life scenarios where working together is beneficial.
Point out the changes in the scenery and pumpkins as the story progresses, supporting your child's observational skills.
Before reading, ask your child what they know about pumpkins and pumpkin patches, and revisit what they learned after reading.
After reading, consider planning a visit to a local pumpkin patch to bring the story to life and enrich your child’s learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Pumpkin Day!' the characters work together to pick pumpkins and prepare for a festive celebration. Their cooperation highlights the importance of working as a team.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school during group projects or at home by collaborating with siblings on chores or activities.
Example Lesson: The Value of Patience
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters must wait for the perfect time to harvest pumpkins, teaching the virtue of patience.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of waiting for the right moment, whether it’s waiting their turn in a game or for an upcoming event.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature
Explanation: The story’s setting in a pumpkin patch highlights the beauty and bounty of nature, encouraging a respect and appreciation for the environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value outdoor activities and may feel inspired to explore nature, engage in gardening, or help in preserving local parks.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The characters use their creativity to carve pumpkins and decorate for the celebration, showing that imagination can turn simple objects into art.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to engage in creative arts and crafts at home or in school, fostering artistic self-expression and innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Importance of Traditions
Explanation: The book depicts a community coming together to celebrate a seasonal event, emphasizing the importance of cultural traditions and communal gatherings.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and participate in their own family or community traditions, understanding their cultural heritage and the joy of shared experiences.