The Itsy Bitsy Pumpkin
#1 of 11 in Itsy Bitsy Series
What’s inside...
This children's book follows the adventure of a tiny pumpkin who rolls out of sight after getting swept away by the wind. It offers a Halloween spin on the classic nursery rhyme, 'The Itsy Bitsy Spider'. This gently spooky twist on 'The Itsy Bitsy Spider' makes a favorite nursery rhyme just perfect for Halloween! The itsy bitsy pumpkin rolled down the spooky street. He passed a ghoulish ghost and some stinky goblin’s feet. A little pumpkin is trying to find his way back home! And with a little help from a friendly witch, he is soon safe and sound, back on his porch—where there are no spiders to be seen! Little ones will love this fresh fall spin on a classic nursery rhyme!
Character compass
Itsy Bitsy Pumpkin
Discussion points
What do you think the itsy bitsy pumpkin was feeling during his adventure?
How would you help the pumpkin if you were one of the characters in the story?
What do you think makes the itsy bitsy pumpkin special?
Can you think of a time when you were brave like the itsy bitsy pumpkin?
What would you have done if you were in the itsy bitsy pumpkin's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings about the itsy bitsy pumpkin's journey. Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, and allow pauses after each question to give your child time to think. Relate the pumpkin’s experiences to your child’s personal experiences to deepen the connection with the story. Finally, celebrate the bravery and uniqueness, just like the itsy bitsy pumpkin, reinforcing positive self-esteem.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The Itsy Bitsy Pumpkin faces challenges while rolling down the street but doesn't give up. He keeps trying until he finds his way back home.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles whether in learning new skills or solving everyday problems.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout his journey, the pumpkin encounters situations that require creative thinking to navigate his way back home.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to think creatively when faced with difficulties, promoting adaptive thinking in real-world scenarios.
Example Lesson: Independence
Explanation: The pumpkin's adventure starts with him venturing out on his own, highlighting the theme of independence and self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore and embrace new experiences confidently, fostering a sense of autonomy.
Example Lesson: Helpfulness
Explanation: During his journey, the Itsy Bitsy Pumpkin encounters characters that offer help, emphasizing the value of kindness and community support.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of helping others and the impact of cooperation within their community.
Example Lesson: Joy in simple adventures
Explanation: The simple narrative about a small pumpkin rolling through town captures the essence of finding joy in small, everyday adventures.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to appreciate and find happiness in the simple moments of daily life.