Ready Freddy! Tooth Trouble
#1 of 27 in Ready, Freddy! Series
What’s inside...
Unhappy to be the only one in his class who still has not lost a tooth, first-grader Freddy tries to find a way to expedite matters but then is faced with another problem. Watch out, Junie, there's a new kid on the block! It's Freddy Thresher, a first grader who knows it's a jungle out there. A new chapter book series written by an elementary teacher who's seen it all! Freddy Thresher has a really, really big problem. He's the only one in his class who hasn't lost a tooth! All of the other students in Mrs. Wushy's first grade have signed their names on the Big Tooth, and Freddy's determined to get his name on it, too. So when Max 'The Meanie' Sellars calls Freddy a baby, Freddy decides he's going to lose that tooth one way or another, even if it means getting punched in the face at recess, or even bigger trouble, with Mom!
Discussion points
How did Freddy feel when he discovered he was the only one in his class without a loose tooth? What would you do if you were in his situation?
Why do you think Freddy tried to make his tooth loose? Did his plan work out as he expected?
Can you think of a time when you felt left out like Freddy? How did you handle it?
Freddy showed a lot of determination throughout the story. What does it mean to be determined, and can you share an example from your own life?
What lessons did Freddy learn by the end of the book? How do you think he changed?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize the book's themes of growing up and facing challenges to connect with your child's personal experiences. Ask them to reflect on similar situations they've had and how they felt.
Encourage your child to discuss their feelings and thoughts about Freddy's actions and decisions. Use open-ended questions to foster deeper understanding and empathy.
Highlight the importance of trying and learning from mistakes. Discuss with your child how both success and failure are valuable experiences.
Promote the value of honesty and communication, as seen in Freddy's interactions with his parents and friends. Discuss with your child how they communicate their feelings during difficult times.
Use the story to discuss change and resilience. Talk about the changes your child might be going through and how they can adapt and grow from new challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: In 'Ready Freddy! Tooth Trouble,' Freddy demonstrates bravery by dealing with his fear of losing his first tooth, despite feeling anxious and scared.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, speaking in front of the class, or facing a medical procedure.
Example Lesson: Empathy and support from peers
Explanation: Freddy receives encouragement and support from his friends, which helps him feel less alone and more confident in facing his challenge.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of supporting each other. Kids can apply this lesson by being there for their friends during challenging times, like comforting a classmate who is upset.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through personal challenges
Explanation: Despite the setbacks Freddy faces with his loose tooth, he continues to persevere until the tooth finally comes out.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to keep trying and not give up when facing their own challenges, such as learning a new skill or improving in a subject they find difficult.
Example Lesson: Understanding natural growth processes
Explanation: The book explains the natural process of losing baby teeth, and how it is a part of growing up.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding to other natural growth processes, gaining a sense of normalcy and security about the changes occurring as they grow.
Example Lesson: Humor as a way to cope with uncomfortable situations
Explanation: Freddy uses humor to deal with the anxiety of losing his tooth, making the situation less intimidating for himself and his peers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use humor to ease their own anxieties and to help others feel better too, whether it’s about schoolwork, family matters, or social situations.