Showdown at the Arcade (Lc and the Critter Kids)
#3 in Mercer Mayer'S LC & The Critter Kids Series
What’s inside...
In 'Showdown at the Arcade,' part of the 'LC and the Critter Kids' series by Mercer Mayer, the Critter Kids face a challenge when a new, high-tech arcade opens in Critterville. LC (Little Critter) and his friends are excited to check out the new games, but they soon discover that the arcade is run by a shady character who is cheating the kids out of their money with rigged games. Determined to save their allowances and their town's integrity, the Critter Kids band together to expose the arcade's dishonest practices. They devise a clever plan to beat the rigged games and reveal the truth to the community. Through teamwork and ingenuity, they manage to outsmart the arcade owner, ensuring fair play for all the kids in Critterville. The story teaches important lessons about honesty, standing up for what's right, and the power of working together to overcome obstacles. Additionally, LC finds himself the target of Flex, the school bully, and finally challenges him to a video game duel.
Discussion points
What do you think LC and the Critter Kids learned about teamwork during their adventure at the arcade?
How did the characters handle challenges and disagreements among themselves?
What would you have done differently if you were one of the Critter Kids?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in a different setting, like a park or a library?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, ensure to listen actively to your child’s responses to understand their perspective better.
Encourage your child to talk about their favorite parts of the book and explore what specifically about that part or character they liked.
Relate the book’s scenarios to real-life situations your child might encounter, like working collaboratively on a school project, to reinforce the lessons learned.
Ask your child to draw or write a short story about their favorite character from the book. This can help deepen their connection and understanding of the character’s traits and decisions.
Use the book as a springboard to discuss the value of resolving conflicts and working together towards a common goal, highlighting examples from the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Showdown at the Arcade', LC and the Critter Kids must work together to solve challenges they encounter at the arcade. Their success hinges on their ability to collaborate and use each member's strengths effectively.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals. This lesson can be applied in group projects at school, sports, and other cooperative activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout their adventure, the Critter Kids face various puzzles and obstacles. The story showcases their ability to think critically and creatively to navigate these challenges.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to approach difficulties with a problem-solving mindset, whether it's during academic tasks, personal projects, or interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: As the Critter Kids encounter setbacks at the arcade, they learn to persevere and not give up despite difficulties. Their tenacity ultimately leads to a rewarding experience.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of persistence even when faced with challenges. This trait can be vital in overcoming academic hurdles or in learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Integrity and Honesty
Explanation: When faced with the temptation to cheat in a game to win a bigger prize, the Critter Kids choose to play fair. This decision highlights the importance of integrity.
Real-World Application: Reinforces the principle of honesty in all aspects of life including schoolwork, sports, and personal relationships.