The Tale of Two Trees
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This heartwarming story teaches children that even when things don't go according to plan, Christmas can still be a wonderful time filled with love and light. What happens when your Christmas tree dies, the star for the top of the tree breaks, and someone in your family gets cancer? What if many things are shut down because of a bad virus and tradition must change? Can Christmas be saved? This story shows children that even during difficult times, the true meaning of Christmas is about spending time with loved ones and celebrating the hope and love that come from God. With its charming illustrations and heartwarming message, this Christmas picture book is sure to become a cherished favorite for children and parents alike.
Age
3-9
Length
33 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the two trees felt when they were different from each other?
What can we learn from how the trees treated each other?
Why is it important to appreciate our differences?
Can you think of a time when someone different helped you?
What would you have done if you were one of the trees in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the feelings of the trees by asking how they would feel in a similar situation.
Discuss the importance of diversity and acceptance, relating the trees’ experiences to real-life scenarios in school or with friends.
Praise your child for insightful answers, fostering a positive and open dialogue.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences to make the conversation more engaging and relevant.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to delve deeper into their understanding and perspective.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of cooperation
Explanation: In 'The Tale of Two Trees,' two trees growing close together learn to share sunlight and nutrients, demonstrating the power of working together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to collaborate with peers in school projects or sports, understanding that teamwork often leads to better outcomes.
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptability
Explanation: Despite facing harsh weather conditions, the trees learn to adapt by bending in the wind and supporting each other, symbolizing resilience.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to adapt to changes and challenges in their lives, such as moving to a new city or changing schools, with a positive attitude.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and the environment
Explanation: The story highlights the trees' role in the ecosystem, emphasizing the need to care for and respect nature.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to engage in environmentally friendly practices like recycling or planting trees, fostering an early sense of environmental responsibility.
Example Lesson: Patience and growth
Explanation: The gradual growth of the trees, facing many seasons, teaches the value of patience and trusting the process of growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that personal and academic growth takes time, and patience is key to achieving long-term goals.
Example Lesson: Unity and diversity
Explanation: Although the two trees are different types, they thrive by living harmoniously, illustrating unity in diversity.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of embracing diversity in their communities and schools, understanding that everyone can coexist peacefully despite differences.