The Bears Shared
#2 in Bears Adventure Series
What’s inside...
A rollicking picture book that celebrates finding warmth and shelter during a springtime storm. This is the lair the bears shared. This is the hair that came from the lair the bears shared. This is the bird that borrowed the hair to build a nest in a tall, tall tree with branches that thrashed in thunder that crashed... and the story of how animals find home and family among it all! With rhythmic text by Kim Norman and adorable artwork by David Walker, The Bears Shared is a great read-aloud for animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and children and grown-ups with love to share.
Discussion points
What do you think sharing means to the bears in the story?
How did the bears feel when they shared, and why do you think they felt that way?
Can you think of a time when you shared something and it made you happy?
What would you have done if you were in the same situation as the bears?
Why is sharing important in our family or at school?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they think it means to share, and revisit their answer after reading.
Encourage your child to express how they felt about the bears' actions and relate them to their own experiences with sharing.
While discussing the book, use expressive facial expressions and voice modulation to emphasize the emotions conveyed in the story.
After reading, involve your child in a simple sharing activity to reinforce the book's message, such as sharing a snack or a toy with a friend or sibling.
Praise your child’s insights and encourage them by highlighting the virtues of sharing as shown in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Sharing and generosity
Explanation: The story illustrates how the bear family shares their resources and time with each other, emphasizing the value of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing toys and snacks with their peers, fostering a sense of community and cooperation in social settings.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the bear siblings encounter various challenges that they solve together, highlighting the importance of teamwork and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids can utilize these problem-solving skills at school or in play, working together to find solutions during group activities or conflicts.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The bears show a deep appreciation for their natural surroundings, teaching children to care for and respect the environment.
Real-World Application: This can translate to everyday actions like not littering, participating in recycling programs, and learning more about local wildlife and plants.
Example Lesson: Family values
Explanation: The story reinforces the significance of family bonds and spending quality time together.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value family moments, whether it’s during meals, outings, or simply engaging in home activities together.
Example Lesson: Kindness
Explanation: Kind interactions between the characters provide a consistent theme of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson guides children to practice kindness in daily interactions with friends and family, making a positive impact on their social environment.