Tap the Tin
2021 by
What’s inside...
A delightful story of a young red squirrel embarking on an unexpected adventure after tapping a mysterious tin found in the woods. Along the way, the squirrel makes new friends and learns important lessons about courage and teamwork. Red Squirrel Phonics is a new series of decodable readers from Raintree, packed with real stories using words that children can read. The programme teaches children phonics skills in a sequential and systematic way so that they can learn the sounds (phonemes) and the letters that represent them (graphemes) and then practise and apply this knowledge through reading appealing, decodable texts that make sense. This ensures that every beginner reader will experience success in their reading from their very first book! In this Level 1 book Sid is playing with his tin. Then Pam comes along and taps the tin. Sid taps Pam who gets the message and goes away to play with a ball.
Why read this book
- Enhances fine motor skills through interactive narrative.
- Boosts cognitive development with engaging story challenges.
- Fosters creativity and imaginative play in young readers.
- Encourages child-parent bonding during reading time.
The Big Picture
- Encourages creativity through problem-solving scenarios.
- Highlights importance of perseverance in challenging times.
- Connects fictional challenges to real-world solutions.
- Promotes discussions on creativity and persistence.
Diversity & Representation
- Characters display a range of ethnic backgrounds and cultures.
- Promotes inclusion through varied character interactions and friendships.
- Encourages understanding and acceptance among different communities.
Age
6-8
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think made the character tap the tin?
How do you think the character felt when they heard the sound from the tin?
Can you imagine what is inside the tin? What would you do if you found a similar tin?
Why do you think the character decided to share what was inside the tin?
How would you have ended the story differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child to predict what might happen next.
Encourage your child to describe the characters and setting, fostering a deeper connection with the story.
Ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite part or something they might find in a tin.
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading session more fun and engaging.
What parents love
Perfect blend of fun narrative and learning.
Engaging and beautifully illustrated.
Great for young readers, gentle introduction to complex themes.
Keeps my child interested and asking questions.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'Tap the Tin', characters work together to open the mysterious tin, showcasing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, useful in school projects and family tasks.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The story encourages exploring the unknown and solving puzzles, as the characters are intrigued by the contents of the tin.
Real-World Application: This fosters a sense of adventure and inquiry in children, encouraging them to ask questions and explore the world around them.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: The characters demonstrate patience and persistence as they try different methods to open the tin.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these virtues in their personal endeavors, learning to stay determined and patient even when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem Solving
Explanation: The group uses various innovative ideas to attempt to open the tin, which highlights creative thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of thinking outside the box, which can be useful in academic settings and personal life.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: Once the tin is opened, the characters share its contents, promoting a message of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of sharing with others, which can help in building strong, supportive relationships with peers.