Santa and the Three Bears
What’s inside...
It's the night before Christmas and Mrs. Claus is preparing a surprise party for Santa. She and her helpers have baked the cookies and cakes. They have strung the garland and lights. Now all they need is a Christmas tree. While Mrs. Claus and her helpers are searching the woods, a family of bears comes across the Claus's house. The house looks so warm and cozy and smells so good that they make themselves right at home. But what will happen when Mrs. Claus returns? Dominic Catalano's variation on the Goldilocks story is filled with warmth and holiday good cheer.
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nana
Nikomi
Chinook
The Ranger
Discussion points
How do you think the bears felt when they met Santa for the first time?
What would you do if you found Santa in your home like the three bears did?
Why is sharing important, as seen in the story?
What did you learn about kindness from the interactions between Santa and the bears?
How did Santa and the bears help each other in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about Santa Claus and bears to activate prior knowledge.
Use different voices for each character to make the storytelling more engaging and distinct.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask predictive questions, like 'What do you think will happen next?'
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s experiences, such as a time they shared something with friends.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a scene from the book or write a letter to Santa, fostering deeper connection with the storyline.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and generosity
Explanation: In the story, Santa shows great kindness by helping the three bear cubs find a perfect Christmas gift, demonstrating compassion and selflessness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be considerate and generous towards others, understanding that thoughtful acts can bring joy and happiness.
Example Lesson: The value of cooperation
Explanation: The bear cubs work together to prepare for Santa's arrival, highlighting the power of teamwork and collaborative effort.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cooperate with siblings and peers, promoting harmony and shared success in group activities.
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Santa's enthusiasm for giving presents without expecting anything in return teaches children the satisfaction that comes from making others happy through acts of giving.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of selflessness and the happiness it can bring, motivating them to share and give gifts to friends and family.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: Santa adapts his usual traditions to suit the bear family's unique lifestyle, showing respect and consideration for different ways of life.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate and respect diversity among their own peers, promoting an inclusive attitude towards others’ cultures and traditions.
Example Lesson: The spirit of Christmas
Explanation: The story encapsulates the spirit of Christmas through themes of love, joy, and family bonding, highlighting the deeper meaning of the holiday beyond just gifts.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cherish and prioritize family time and to understand the emotional and communal aspects of celebrating holidays together.