Thank You for the Little Things
on Goodreads (159)
What’s inside...
A heartwarming story that celebrates the small, everyday things in life that bring us joy and happiness. Through the eyes of a child, readers are reminded to appreciate the little moments and simple pleasures that often go unnoticed. The perfect book to share with anxious little ones, and the ideal antidote to worries big and small - with gorgeous illustrations by the bestselling illustrator of THE WORLD MADE A RAINBOW. Whenever feeling sad or life feels hard, focusing on little things that make one smile can uplift spirits. This book encourages readers, especially children, to find joy in simple activities like swinging high on playground swings or enjoying melty ice cream, and reinforces the message that sometimes it's the smallest things that can turn a grey day around.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What little things mentioned in the book did you enjoy or find interesting?
How did the characters show gratitude for the small things around them?
Why do you think saying 'thank you' is important?
Can you think of someone you’d like to thank? What would you thank them for?
How do you feel when someone thanks you for something?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight the importance of gratitude by sharing examples of little things you are thankful for in your everyday life.
Foster empathy by discussing how each character might feel when they are appreciated.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by asking them to draw or write about something small for which they are grateful.
Create a daily or weekly routine where family members share something they are thankful for, emphasizing the theme of the book.
Reinforce the message of the book by crafting thank you cards or messages for loved ones together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Gratitude for small blessings
Explanation: The book guides children through a journey of acknowledging and appreciating the little things in life, like a sunny day or a friend’s smile.
Real-World Application: Children learn to notice and appreciate everyday pleasures, fostering a positive outlook and satisfaction.
Example Lesson: Kindness and compassion
Explanation: Characters in the story demonstrate acts of kindness towards each other, modeling compassionate behavior.
Real-World Application: Children emulate this behavior, learning to be kind and considerate towards others in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The joy of sharing
Explanation: The story highlights the happiness derived from sharing experiences and items with others.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of sharing with siblings and friends, enhancing their social interactions and cooperative skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of community
Explanation: The narrative showcases the characters interacting within their community, emphasizing the support and joy found in communal activities.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to participate in group activities, whether in school or in their neighborhood, building a sense of belonging and teamwork.