The Perfect Place for a Picnic
What’s inside...
In 'The Perfect Place for a Picnic,' Katie Dale crafts an enchanting tale of two different pairs of friends, Mimi and Momo, as well as Mo and Yaz, each on their quest to find the ideal spot for a picnic. Mimi and Momo encounter various humorous and challenging obstacles, while Mo and Yaz face everything going wrong from the start. Both stories teach young readers valuable lessons on problem-solving, perseverance, and cooperation, complemented by engaging illustrations and activities that enhance literacy and instill a love for reading. These delightful books are perfect for reading aloud and promise a bonding experience for young readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes a place perfect for a picnic?
How did the characters solve the problem they faced during their picnic?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like the characters in the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the story?
Why do you think the author chose a picnic to tell this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking if they’ve ever had a picnic and what made it memorable.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and problem-solving as seen in the book, and ask your child about times they've had to solve problems with others.
After reading, engage your child’s imagination by planning your own ideal picnic, discussing location, food, and activities based on inspiration from the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to choose the perfect spot and prepare for the picnic, showing the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this in group activities at school or in play, learning to cooperate and value each other's opinions.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters encounter various challenges, like sudden weather changes, and work together to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively when faced with obstacles, fostering resilience.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The book's setting in a picturesque outdoor spot highlights the beauty of the natural world, encouraging interest and respect for the environment.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore the outdoors, participate in environmental conservation efforts, and appreciate the world around them.
Example Lesson: Planning and Preparation
Explanation: The characters plan their picnic, decide on what to bring, and prepare items needed, teaching the value of preparation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of planning in everyday tasks like packing for school or preparing for a family outing.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: The characters share food and resources during the picnic, promoting the values of sharing and generosity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to share toys, snacks, and time with others, fostering a sense of community and kindness in social interactions.