The Bear With Long Hair: Bartholomew Bear in...
#3 of 19 in Red Beetle Children's Picture Books Ages 3-8 Series
What’s inside...
The Bear with Long Hair is a children's book about Bartholomew Bear who refuses to cut his long hair despite it obstructing his vision. This vibrant book uses rhythm and rhyme to teach children about responsibility and chores. It's part of the Red Beetle Books series which focuses on moral tales and life lessons like sharing, kindness, and adapting to change. Suitable for children aged 3-8, it's perfect for bedtime and for kids starting their reading journey.
Discussion points
What do you think makes Bartholomew Bear different from the other bears?
How do you think Bartholomew feels when others notice his long hair?
What would you do if you were Bartholomew and someone reacted to your hair?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to be accepted just the way they are?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did that make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you explore the book, point out the emotions that Bartholomew might be feeling in various situations, and ask your child if they have ever felt the same way.
Encourage your child to think about how differences make each of us unique by relating the story to real-world examples.
Use expressive reading to convey the different characters’ personalities and emotions, making the story come alive for your child.
After reading, engage your child in drawing what they think a new friend for Bartholomew might look like, focusing on celebrating diverse qualities.
Discuss the importance of acceptance and kindness, and relate them to your child’s everyday interactions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Bartholomew Bear, despite having unusually long hair for a bear, learns to love and accept himself as he is.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by appreciating their unique traits and understanding that everyone is special in their own way.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Bullies
Explanation: In the story, Bartholomew faces ridicule from other bears due to his long hair, but he learns to stand up for himself and not be affected by negative comments.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be resilient and to assert themselves in the face of teasing or bullying, promoting self-confidence.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: Bartholomew’s friends support him and appreciate his long hair, showing the importance of having supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining friendships that make them feel valued and accepted.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Resourcefulness
Explanation: Bartholomew uses his long hair creatively to solve problems and help others in the story.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think creatively and use their personal attributes in positive ways to help themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Accepting Change
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bartholomew learns to adapt to his unique situation and embrace the changes in his life.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that change is a part of life and adapting positively to change is a valuable skill.