Shh... Mommy's Working: Operation: Quiet Play
illustrations by
What’s inside...
With school unexpectedly closed and sitters unavailable, a spirited child navigates Mommy's work-from-home day.
The challenge is keep quiet. But who can resist a kazoo concerto, brick castles, or rowdy toy battles?
Laugh out loud and join the mischievous mayhem!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-8
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways you can play quietly like the characters in the book?
Why is it important for Mommy to have quiet time to work?
How did the characters feel when they found a game they all enjoyed?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
What are some other quiet activities you like to do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own experiences of needing quiet time to concentrate on a task.
Encourage your child to relate their quiet play activities to the characters in the book to foster empathy and understanding.
Display genuine interest and curiosity in their answers to foster open communication.
Praise their thoughtful responses and creative ideas, reinforcing positive behavior and critical thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Quiet Time
Explanation: In 'Shh... Mommy's Working: Operation: Quiet Play,' children learn the value of quiet time while Mommy is working, showcasing how they can engage in silent activities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by choosing quiet activities like reading or drawing when parents or guardians are busy, fostering respect for others' need for concentration.
Example Lesson: Self-Entertainment
Explanation: The book portrays children finding ways to entertain themselves quietly, emphasizing creative self-sufficiency without adult intervention.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination to create their own fun, which is crucial for their cognitive and emotional development.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Empathy
Explanation: Through the narrative, children learn to understand why it is sometimes important for adults to work without interruptions, and the role empathy plays in family dynamics.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to empathize with others' needs in the real world, helping them build stronger, more understanding relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The characters in the story come up with creative solutions to play quietly, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to think critically and solve problems in their daily lives, whether it's during playtime or in academic settings.
Example Lesson: Collaboration and Teamwork
Explanation: The siblings work together to keep their play quiet, teaching the value of cooperation and teamwork.
Real-World Application: In real life, children can utilize teamwork in school projects or in coordinating play with friends, enhancing social skills and cooperation.