The Berenstain Bears and the Prize Pumpkin
#14 of 86 in The Berenstain Bears Series
on Goodreads (2,634)
What’s inside...
The Bear family becomes involved in an array of fall activities as they find a nutritious pumpkin patch. In time, they joined the Pumpkin contest in the annual Bear Country Thanksgiving Festival. Join the Berenstain Bears as they celebrate Thanksgiving and count their blessings. Makes a perfect gift with over 50 bonus fall-themed stickers! Count your blessings with the Berenstain Bears! Includes bonus stickers! This Berenstain Bears story is a perfect way to teach children about what they should truly be thankful for. Come for a visit in Bear Country with this classic from Stan and Jan Berenstain. It's November, and the Bear family are entering the Thanksgiving Festival's Big Pumpkin Contest. Will winning be the only thing that matters, or will the Bear family learn about the true meaning of Thanksgiving? Includes over 50 bonus stickers!
Discussion points
How do you think Brother and Sister Bear felt when their pumpkin didn't win the contest?
What does the story teach us about winning and losing?
Why is it important to spend time with family, just like the Bears did at the festival?
How can you show good sportsmanship or be supportive when someone else wins a prize?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use reflective listening during the conversation. After your child answers a question, reflect back what they said to ensure understanding.
Relate the story's themes to real-life experiences to make the discussion more relatable. For instance, ask your child about a time they participated in a contest or a family event.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios in the story to foster creative thinking.
Discuss the family values exhibited in the book and relate them to your family's values to deepen the connection with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Hard Work
Explanation: In the story, the Bear family works diligently to grow a prize-winning pumpkin, showing effort and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to understand that success often comes from dedication and labor, applicable in their studies, sports, and other hobbies.
Example Lesson: Handling Disappointment
Explanation: Despite their hard work, the Bears do not win the pumpkin contest which teaches children that effort does not always lead to the desired outcome.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children cope with setbacks in a healthy way, learning to accept and learn from disappointments.
Example Lesson: Value of Sportsmanship
Explanation: The Bear family shows good sportsmanship by being happy for the winners, underscoring the importance of gracious behavior whether you win or lose.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to be supportive and kind peers during competitive activities at school or in sports, celebrating others' successes.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Community
Explanation: Throughout the contest, the community comes together to celebrate, illustrating the strength of communal bonds and shared experiences.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate in community events and value family time, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.