The Gratitude Tree
What’s inside...
Attention, parents! Introducing The Gratitude Tree, the perfect book for teaching kids ages 3-5 about thankfulness. Follow Emma on her beautiful journey as she learns the value of appreciation and gratitude. Engage your young reader with bright and beautiful watercolor illustrations that bring the story to life and pique their curiosity. Explore Emma's world as she discovers the thrill of developing empathy and gratefulness, and don't miss out on adding this essential book to your child's library to cultivate important life skills.
Age
3-5
Length
27 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it means to be grateful, and which part of the book showed gratitude the best?
How did the Gratitude Tree change the way characters in the story felt or acted?
Can you think of a time when you felt grateful for something or someone? How did it make you feel?
What are three things you are grateful for today, and why?
If you had a Gratitude Tree, what would you hang on it and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and relate personal experiences about gratitude after reading the story.
Revisit the illustrations in the book that vividly portray characters expressing gratitude, and discuss their emotions.
Build a daily gratitude practice by asking your child to share one thing they’re grateful for at bedtime, inspired by the book.
Create a simple 'Gratitude Tree' craft with your child using paper and markers, and encourage them to add 'leaves' with things they’re grateful for.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: In 'The Gratitude Tree', children learn about gratitude as characters express thankfulness for various aspects of nature and their daily lives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by verbally expressing thanks for meals, family, or friends, or by writing thank-you notes for gifts or kind acts.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The story centers on a tree that represents steadfastness and provision, encouraging children to notice and appreciate the natural world around them.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in activities like planting trees, participating in recycling programs, or going on nature walks to deepen their connection with the environment.
Example Lesson: Interpersonal Relationships
Explanation: The interactions between the characters around the tree show the importance of relationships and community.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child's life by encouraging participation in community events, collaborative projects at school, or helping neighbors.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: As the characters in the book share the space under the tree, it teaches children the value of sharing and being generous.
Real-World Application: Children can practice this lesson by sharing toys, books or snacks with their peers, or by donating to those in need.
Example Lesson: Mindfulness
Explanation: The book encourages living in the moment and appreciating the present, much like the characters do under the tree.
Real-World Application: Children can practice mindfulness through simple daily exercises like breathing techniques or paying close attention to their senses during various activities.