Reading Champion: The New Baby: Independent Reading Orange 6
Reading corner. Series
What’s inside...
The story follows a young child named Holly as they prepare for and adjust to the arrival of a new baby sibling. Initially hoping for a little sister, Holly is disappointed when her mother has a baby boy. Through a journey filled with worry, assumptions, and big changes, Holly learns to adapt and discovers that having a little brother can be just as enjoyable. The narrative explores themes of family, love, and adaptation, providing a heartwarming tale that reaffirms the joys of sibling relationships.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when the new baby arrived?
What would you do to make a new sibling feel welcome?
Can you think of any ways the family’s daily life changed with the arrival of the new baby?
Why is it important to show kindness and patience to a new sibling?
What are some things you would teach a new baby sibling?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deep connection with the book’s themes, relate the story to your child’s own experiences. If your child has siblings, ask them to share stories of when a new sibling came into their life, emphasizing feelings and changes they noticed. If they are an only child, discuss how they would envision a similar situation, encouraging empathy and understanding. Use expressive reading to mimic emotions in the story, making the narrative come alive and more relatable. Lastly, celebrate the concept of family growth, perhaps by drawing parallels to how your child has grown and learned new things, just as the characters in the book do.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The story narrates the arrival of a new baby in the family, showcasing how the characters adapt to this significant change.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to accept and find joy in changes that occur in their own lives, such as moving to a new school or welcoming a new family member.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The characters in the book demonstrate understanding and care for each other's feelings, especially in adapting to the new baby's needs.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be more considerate and supportive of their friends and family members' feelings and experiences.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Older siblings in the story take on new responsibilities to help care for the new baby.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take on more responsibilities at home, such as helping with chores or looking after younger siblings.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The book highlights the strengthening of family ties through shared experiences and support during the introduction of a new family member.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to value and nurture their relationships with family members, creating strong emotional bonds.