The Starlight Ballerina
What’s inside...
Mia wants to dance, she wants it more than anything, but somehow everything goes wrong: then, one night, she makes a special friend who helps her to shine.
Discussion points
How did the Starlight Ballerina's journey make you feel?
What do you think was the hardest challenge for her, and why?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like the Starlight Ballerina?
What would you do if you were in the Starlight Ballerina's shoes at the big dance competition?
How do you think the Starlight Ballerina felt at the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to bring the story’s emotions to life, helping your child connect with the Starlight Ballerina’s experiences.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story by relating it to their own experiences, promoting empathy and deep understanding.
Discuss the importance of perseverance and bravery, as demonstrated by the Starlight Ballerina, and relate these themes to real-life situations your child might face.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios in the story, enhancing their creative and critical thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The Starlight Ballerina follows the journey of a young ballerina who faces challenges but continues to practice and improve.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of dedication and hard work in mastering a skill or overcoming difficulties in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The protagonist learns to understand and share the feelings of her peers, promoting inclusivity and kindness.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children grasp the importance of considering others' feelings and perspectives, fostering better social interactions and friendships.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: The young ballerina learns that working with others enhances the performance and brings out the best in everyone involved.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate cooperating with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Self-expression
Explanation: Through dance, the main character expresses her emotions and tells stories, showcasing the power of artistic expression.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and express their thoughts and feelings through creative outlets like art, music, or writing.