The Christmas Hat
What’s inside...
In the illustrated children's book 'The Christmas Hat', Little Owl is often hard to spot against the snowy Canadian winter backdrop due to his fluffy, white feathers. To keep track of him, Rabbit makes a festive red hat for Little Owl to wear during the Christmas season. However, this bright hat also catches the eye of a hungry Fox, putting Little Owl in danger. The story explores themes of friendship and festivity, and is accompanied by detailed woodland illustrations and embossed pages, making it a potential classic. The series has seen significant success, with over 100,000 copies sold in Canada.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
512 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of 'The Christmas Hat' and why?
How do you think the owl felt when it found the hat? Can you describe a time you felt the same way?
Why is sharing important, as shown in the book?
How did the animals help each other in the story? What can we learn from their actions?
If you could create another adventure for the animals, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by asking open-ended questions. Show interest in their responses and extend the conversation by asking follow-up questions. Relate the story's themes to your child’s own experiences to deepen their understanding and empathy. Use expressive reading to make the story come alive and maintain their engagement. After reading, consider doing a themed craft or activity to reinforce the story's messages.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: In 'The Christmas Hat,' the protagonist learns the happiness that comes from giving to others, even when they have little to give themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take pleasure in the act of giving, whether it's sharing their toys or doing a kind deed for a family member or friend.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters demonstrate empathy by understanding and responding to the feelings and needs of others.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more attuned to the emotions of classmates and family members, promoting kinder interactions with those around them.
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: The main character uses their creativity to solve a problem, showing that resourcefulness is just as important as the materials at hand.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this lesson to think creatively in solving their own problems, using whatever resources they have available.