Ready Steady Mo!
#1 in Run on the Run Series
What’s inside...
Ready Steady Mo! is an exciting picture book that combines playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations to inspire children to get active and enjoy running. The story follows a young boy whose running adventures take him everywhere, from the kitchen to outer space. Authored by Olympic gold medal winner Mo Farah and bestselling author Kes Gray, this book not only promotes physical activity but also celebrates Mo Farah's passion for running and literacy. It's an engaging read that encourages children to move and explore the joys of running in different settings.
Discussion points
How do you think Mo feels when he's running? Can you describe a time when you felt the same way?
What are some obstacles Mo faces, and how does he overcome them?
Why do you think practice is important for Mo? How does practice help you in your activities?
How do Mo's friends and family support his love for running? Who supports your hobbies and dreams?
What lessons can we learn from Mo's journey in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their personal experiences, which will help deepen their understanding and connection to the narrative.
Ask open-ended questions that focus not just on the plot, but on the emotions and motivations of the characters to foster empathy and a deeper comprehension.
Use positive reinforcement when your child expresses their thoughts and feelings about the story to encourage ongoing dialogue.
Explore the themes of perseverance and support networks in the book, and relate them to real-life scenarios in your child's world to make the concepts more tangible.
Emphasize the importance of regular practice and dedication, drawing parallels between the book's message and your child's life to instill motivation and a growth mindset.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: The character demonstrates determination as he overcomes obstacles on his running journey, which mirrors Mo Farah's own perseverance in his athletic career.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to try their best in activities like sports or learning new skills, even when they find it challenging.
Example Lesson: Healthy Lifestyle
Explanation: The book promotes physical activity and illustrates the joys of running, encouraging a healthy lifestyle through fun and engaging storytelling.
Real-World Application: Kids are motivated to engage in physical activities such as running or playing outside, which contributes to their physical and mental health.
Example Lesson: Goal Setting
Explanation: The protagonist sets a clear goal to be fast, which aligns with achieving personal milestones.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to set personal goals for themselves, whether academic, in sports, or personal hobbies, and understand the satisfaction of achieving them.
Example Lesson: Self-confidence
Explanation: As the character in the book gains skill and recognition for his running, his self-confidence grows.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to believe in their abilities and feel proud of their accomplishments, boosting their self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Team Spirit
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of community and support in achieving personal goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to support their peers and understand that success can also be a collective achievement, not just individual.