That's NOT How You Do It!
#1 of 46 in Child's Play Library Series
on Goodreads (196)
What’s inside...
Lucy knows how to do everything. She knows how to eat with a spoon and fork, play the xylophone, paint elephants – and lots more besides! All her friends ask her for help if they need to know the right way to do something. When Toshi arrives, Lucy thinks he can’t do anything properly at all. He eats differently, plays strange music, and he definitely can’t paint elephants. She can barely hide her frustration. And when she finally tries to teach Toshi the right way to do things, she learns a very important lesson herself. A simple, funny tale about understanding, respecting and enjoying our differences.
Discussion points
What do you think made Lucy feel upset when she saw Toshi doing things differently?
Can you think of a time when someone did something differently than you? How did that make you feel?
Why is it important to accept different ways of doing things from friends or classmates?
How did Lucy's attitude change by the end of the book? What helped her change?
If you were in Toshi's place, how would you have shown your classmates your way of doing things?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about times they noticed differences in others' behavior or methods.
Discuss the value of diversity and how different perspectives can lead to better outcomes.
Relate the story to real-life situations in school or during playdates to make it more relatable.
Prompt your child to think about how embracing differences can lead to learning new things.
Use examples from your own experiences where you learned something valuable from someone else's approach.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Lucy, learns that people from different backgrounds may approach tasks differently, symbolized by her interaction with the new cat, Toshi, who does things in his own unique way.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and accept differences among their peers at school or in playgrounds, promoting inclusivity and diminishing biases.
Example Lesson: Openness to New Ideas
Explanation: Throughout the book, Lucy realizes that Toshi’s different methods are equally effective, teaching her to be open to new ways of doing things rather than strictly adhering to her own.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more adaptable and considerate in group activities or collaborations, fostering teamwork and creativity.
Example Lesson: Self-Reflection and Growth
Explanation: Lucy’s journey from skepticism to acceptance and finally to learning new ways demonstrates the importance of self-reflection and growth.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to better themselves by reflecting on their own actions and being open to learning from others, aiding their personal development.
Example Lesson: Respect for Others’ Perspectives
Explanation: The story highlights how Lucy’s respect for Toshi’s different perspectives enriches her experience, leading to a harmonious friendship.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of respecting others’ opinions and perspectives in diverse settings like classrooms, helping to build empathetic relationships.
Example Lesson: Joy in Learning
Explanation: As Lucy discovers the merits of Toshi's approaches, it brings joy and new experiences into her life, showcasing learning as a joyful and continuous process.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to approach learning with enthusiasm and see education as an exciting adventure that goes beyond conventional methods.