Tales from the Waterhole
Candlewick Sparks Series
on Goodreads (85)
What’s inside...
During the dry season, Morris the crocodile and his animal friends enjoy playing in and near the water hole. A warm ode to the unplanned days of summer, this story invites friends of George and Martha or Frog and Toad to read it over and over.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
62 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the different animals in the waterhole? How do you think they felt about sharing the space?
Which story or character did you enjoy the most in 'Tales from the Waterhole' and why?
How do the animals in the book help each other? Can you think of a way we can help our friends or family like they did?
Why do you think the waterhole is so important to the animals in the stories?
If you could create your own tale about the waterhole, what would happen in your story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine the world from the perspective of the diverse animals in 'Tales from the Waterhole'. Ask them to consider how each character might feel in different situations, nurturing empathy and understanding. Furthermore, relate the themes of community and sharing seen in the book to everyday situations in your child’s life, making the connection between fiction and reality. Sharing your own thoughts about the stories can also invigorate the conversation, making reading a joint adventure.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Tales from the Waterhole,' the characters demonstrate strong bonds of friendship through cooperation and support during their adventures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cultivate meaningful relationships by helping and supporting their friends in daily activities.
Example Lesson: Valuing diversity
Explanation: The story showcases various animals from different backgrounds interacting harmoniously at the waterhole, teaching children to appreciate and embrace differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open and inclusive towards peers who may come from different cultural or personal backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the animal characters face various challenges that they overcome through teamwork and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving approaches when faced with difficulties in school or in social settings, fostering resilience and critical thinking.
Example Lesson: Importance of play
Explanation: The playful interactions around the waterhole emphasize the significance of play in learning and development.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the benefits of engaging in play to enhance cognitive and social skills, encouraging children to participate in play-based activities.
Example Lesson: Caring for the environment
Explanation: The animals' efforts to keep the waterhole clean and safe demonstrate an environmental stewardship that is crucial for their survival.
Real-World Application: Children can be guided to take part in environmental conservation efforts, such as recycling or clean-up drives, which instills a sense of responsibility towards nature.