Take a Leap! (Toot & Puddle)
Toot & Puddle Series
on Goodreads (32)
What’s inside...
Toot wants to fly like a bird, so he persuades Puddle to join him for skydiving lessons. 'You only have to watch, Puddle,' he says. They learn to jump as if they were jumping from a plane and practice on a trampoline. When the big day comes, Puddle watches as Toot's plane takes off. With encouragement from his instructor, Toot soars through the air. Puddle, on the ground, reminds him to bend his knees upon impact. Both friends are happy with their roles in another Toot and Puddle adventure.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Toot and Puddle learned about friendship during their adventure?
How did Toot and Puddle show courage and teamwork in the story?
What was your favorite part of their journey, and why?
How do you think the characters changed from the beginning to the end of the book?
If you could go on an adventure like Toot and Puddle, where would you go and who would you take with you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them about a time they tried something new or went on an adventure.
Use expressive reading to bring the characters and the action to life, changing your tone and pace to match the story's mood.
Focus on the illustrations as well as the text, pointing out details in the pictures that add depth to the story or give clues about the characters' emotions.
After reading, engage your child in creative play or drawing to reimagine their favorite scenes or create a new adventure for Toot and Puddle.
Discuss the values like friendship, bravery, and exploration, asking your child how they can apply these in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Toot and Puddle showcase the importance of supporting each other's dreams and aspirations, which strengthens their bond.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to nurture friendships by being supportive and encouraging towards their friends’ interests and goals.
Example Lesson: Courage to try new things
Explanation: Toot takes a leap by trying new activities that he initially finds intimidating, demonstrating bravery and openness to new experiences.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new activities, whether it's a new sport, hobby, or school subject.
Example Lesson: Importance of perseverance
Explanation: The characters face challenges but learn to persevere and not give up easily, which eventually leads to success and personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by persisting through difficulties in their daily tasks or while learning new skills, understanding that resilience leads to achievement.
Example Lesson: Sharing joy with others
Explanation: Toot and Puddle share their experiences and joys with each other, which not only deepens their friendship but also spreads happiness.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of sharing happy moments and achievements with family and friends, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The characters often put themselves in each other’s shoes, trying to understand each other’s feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be empathetic towards their peers, enhancing interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.