The Shape Family Babies (Arbordale Collection)
What’s inside...
Mr. and Mrs. Shape are expecting a baby, but they are surprised when three arrive! The first is just like Mother Rhombus, the other just like Father Rectangle, the third baby is a different shape. What should her name be? Go on a geometry naming adventure as all the shape family relatives weigh in. Will Cousin Triangle, Aunt Hexagon or Grandma Rhombus have the right angle?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Circle Baby felt when she couldn't fit through the square door? What would you have done if you were her?
Why do you think Triangle Baby could pass through all the doors easily?
What kind of shapes are in our house? Can we go on a shape hunt together?
Which Shape Baby did you like the most and why?
How do the different shapes help the Shape Family Babies solve their problems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone when asking the questions to make the child feel comfortable in expressing their thoughts openly.
Relate the scenarios in the book to real-life situations at home or school to help the child connect with the story more personally.
Encourage the child to draw their favorite Shape Baby and describe why they chose that particular shape, encouraging creativity alongside comprehension.
After reading, engage in a playful activity where you and your child try to fit different objects through various shaped openings.
Empathize with the characters’ challenges and successes to teach problem-solving and resilience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity
Explanation: The book showcases various shapes with distinct characteristics, symbolizing the diversity of people in the world.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and embrace differences in those around them, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The Shape Family Babies encounter different challenges that they must solve using their unique attributes.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson to overcome obstacles in their daily lives by utilizing their individual strengths and skills.
Example Lesson: Family bonds
Explanation: The story emphasizes the support and love among the Shape Family members, despite their differences.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of family support and cohesion, encouraging them to contribute positively to their own families.
Example Lesson: Identity and self-acceptance
Explanation: Each shape in the story finds a way to be proud of their own form, promoting self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace their unique qualities and be confident in who they are.