The Children at Play
What’s inside...
The team behind THE RUNAWAY DINNER reverses direction in this clever pastiche of fairy tales in which everyone lives happily ever . . . before. Jack was running like mad in the dark woods with a hen under his arm. Previously, he had stolen the hen and climbed down a beanstalk. But do you know what was Jack doing before he climbed down the beanstalk? Or what Jack and Jill were arguing about before they went up the hill? And what happened before that? Every story, every person, and every thing started somewhere, and now the inventive and whimsical Allan Ahlberg explores what all your favorite storybook characters were up to previously, aided by Bruce Ingman’s energetic illustrations.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the children's play activities in the book, and why?
How did the children in the book work together to solve problems during their play?
Can you think of a time when you played a similar game with your friends? What was it like?
What new game would you like to try after reading this book?
How do you think the children felt when their playtime ended?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the games in the book to their own play experiences. This connection fosters deeper understanding and personal reflection.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and sharing, as demonstrated by the children in the book, to help cultivate empathy and social skills.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to make the playful scenarios more vivid and engaging for the child.
After reading, consider planning a playdate or a family game time that includes activities inspired by the story to bring the themes to life.
Ask open-ended questions that promote critical thinking and encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Cooperation
Explanation: The story showcases various scenarios where children work together to solve problems or create games, emphasizing teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or in play, learning to cooperate with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Characters in the book often engage in imaginative play, creating new worlds and scenarios, highlighting the power of creativity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to use their imagination in play and learning, enhancing problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
Example Lesson: Respect for Differences
Explanation: The book features a diverse group of children who learn to appreciate each other's unique traits and abilities, fostering inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace and respect the differences among their peers, promoting a more inclusive and understanding environment at school and in their communities.
Example Lesson: The joy of discovery
Explanation: Through the adventures and exploration of the characters, the book conveys the excitement and educational value of discovering new things.
Real-World Application: This lesson can motivate children to be curious and explorative in their everyday lives, always eager to learn more about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: The narrative underlines strong bonds formed between the characters through shared experiences and mutual respect.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of building and maintaining friendships, which are crucial for emotional and social development.