Tell Me the Day Backwards
on Goodreads (576)
What’s inside...
In this delightful bedtime story, a young bear named Timmy Bear tells his mama all about his exciting day in reverse order just before going to bed. They play a game called 'Tell Me the Day Backwards', where Timmy recalls his day's events from watching the sunset on the hill to his winter-long hibernation that morning. This charming story by Albert Lamb and David McPhail encourages parents and children to share their own days in reverse, creating a fun and interactive bedtime routine.
Discussion points
What do you think Bear learned by telling the day backwards?
If you could choose any part of Bear's day to experience yourself, which one would it be and why?
How do you think Bear felt at different parts of the day? Can you describe the feelings?
What does this story teach us about remembering and sharing our experiences?
How would you tell your day backwards to me? What would you include?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to visualize Bear's activities by asking them to draw scenes from the book.
While discussing Bear’s feelings, relate them to similar experiences your child might have had to foster empathy and understanding.
Connect the story to real-life by planning a 'day backwards' where you and your child recount your activities from evening to morning.
Praise your child’s responses to develop their confidence in sharing their thoughts and interpretations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Memory Enhancement
Explanation: The narrative technique in 'Tell Me the Day Backwards' involves recounting the day's events in reverse order, challenging young readers to remember and mentally organize the story.
Real-World Application: This method can help children improve their short-term memory and recall skills, which are essential for academic success and daily tasks.
Example Lesson: Creative Thinking
Explanation: By reversing the normal sequence of storytelling, the book encourages children to think creatively and view situations from different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This skill is valuable in problem-solving and can foster innovative thinking in various real-life scenarios, from school projects to interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of Routine
Explanation: The book outlines the events of the bear's day, emphasizing the structure and predictability provided by routines.
Real-World Application: Understanding the importance of daily routines can help children feel more secure and manage their time effectively.
Example Lesson: Bonding and Sharing
Explanation: The story unfolds as a conversation between Timmy Bear and his mother, highlighting the closeness of their relationship through shared storytelling.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes the value of spending quality time with family, encouraging children to engage in meaningful conversations with their own families.