Surprise Party
A Giant First-start Reader. Series
What’s inside...
A surprise party is given for Kate by the other animals.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the surprise party and why?
How do you think the guest of honor felt when they saw the surprise? Have you ever felt that way?
What are some ways we can show kindness and appreciation to our friends, like the characters in the book?
If you were going to plan a surprise party, who would it be for and what would you do to make it special?
How can surprises be good and sometimes a little scary? Can you think of a surprise that made you happy?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the excitement of the surprise party to life. Change your tone of voice during different scenes to depict suspense and joy.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s experiences by asking about any surprises they have encountered or parties they have attended.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their own version of a perfect surprise party. Discuss what elements—like decorations, games, or food—they would include.
After reading, consider planning a mini 'surprise' with your child for another family member, incorporating elements from the book to reinforce the themes discussed.
Discuss the characters’ emotions and reactions at various points in the story, helping your child understand and empathize with each character’s perspective.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of cooperation
Explanation: In 'Surprise Party', characters work together to plan and organize a party, demonstrating teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply cooperation skills at school during group activities or at home by helping with family chores.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The story showcases how friends come together to celebrate and support each other, highlighting strong, positive relationships.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the significance of building and maintaining friendships, which aids in their social development and emotional support.
Example Lesson: Planning and organization skills
Explanation: As the characters prepare for the party, they demonstrate planning and organizing which are crucial skills for any successful event.
Real-World Application: Children can use planning skills to organize their school projects, manage their time for homework, or even plan their own activities.
Example Lesson: The element of surprise and joy
Explanation: The book emphasizes the joy and excitement that surprises can bring, as seen through the reactions of the characters at the party.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to create joyful experiences for others, fostering a sense of generosity and thoughtfulness.