The Berenstain Bears Meet Santa Bear
The Berenstain Bears Series
on Goodreads (4,091)
What’s inside...
Sister Bear enjoys Christmas preparations, especially getting her list ready--but on Christmas morning she realizes what Christmas is really all about. This classic Berenstain Bears story is a perfect way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas! Makes a perfect--and meaningful -- holiday gift with over 50 bonus stickers! Come for a visit in Bear Country with this classic from Stan and Jan Berenstain. Sister and Brother are ready for Christmas and have made their lists for Santa Bear. But it’s up to Mama and Papa to show them that the true meaning of the holiday is about giving – not receiving. Continue to celebrate the true meaning of the seasons with more heartwarming holiday books from the Berenstain Bears—perfectly giftable with bonus stickers and more!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Brother Bear
Sister Bear
Papa Bear
Mama Bear
Santa Bear
Discussion points
How did the Berenstain Bears feel when they met Santa Bear? What would you feel in their place?
What are some of the good deeds the Bear family did? Can you think of a good deed you’d like to do?
Why do you think it's important to give and not just receive during the holidays?
What was your favorite part of the book and why?
If you could ask Santa Bear one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, changing your tone of voice to match different emotions in the story.
Encourage your child to think about the spirit of giving by discussing what gifts they would like to give their loved ones.
Relate the story's themes to real-life experiences by sharing your own holiday memories and asking your child about theirs.
Discuss the illustrations and ask how they help tell the story, focusing on how they add depth to the text and emotions of the characters.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or write a letter to Santa Bear.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of patience
Explanation: In the story, the Berenstain Bears learn to wait patiently for Christmas and for Santa Bear's arrival, rather than focusing solely on receiving gifts immediately.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to wait for their turn in games or activities and understanding that some rewards are worth waiting for.
Example Lesson: Understanding the joy of giving
Explanation: The cubs experience the joy of giving gifts to others and realize that the holiday season is not just about receiving gifts but also about thinking of others.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to give handmade gifts or perform acts of kindness, fostering a sense of empathy and generosity towards others.
Example Lesson: Appreciating family and traditions
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of family gatherings and holiday traditions is emphasized, showing the cubs enjoying the festive season with their family.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and participate in family traditions, helping to strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.
Example Lesson: Learning to express wishes respectfully
Explanation: The cubs learn to express their wishes for Christmas in a respectful and thoughtful manner, rather than being demanding or greedy.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of polite communication and considering how their words can affect others.