The Tide
on Goodreads (294)
What’s inside...
Grandad doesn't remember things like he used to. But I love him as much as I always have. And I know that he loves me. A story about families, laughter, and how we can help a loved one with dementia live well.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the relationship between the little girl and her grandfather in 'The Tide'?
How do you think the grandfather felt when he forgot things?
What does the ocean symbolize in the story? Can you think of other things that might represent memory?
Why do you think the little girl tries to help her grandfather remember?
How did the story make you feel about family and memories?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize a calm and patient tone when discussing the themes of memory and aging. This will create a safe space for your child to express their thoughts and feelings.
Relate the story to personal family experiences. For example, discuss a memory you share with your child or a story about their grandparents.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in similar situations, and what they might do to help someone they love.
Discuss the symbolism of the ocean and other metaphors in the book to enhance your child’s critical thinking about the themes of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Managing Emotions
Explanation: The book portrays a young girl who helps her grandfather cope with memory loss, a scenario that tenderly introduces the concept of empathy and emotional management.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to identify their own and others' emotions, fostering empathy and effective emotional communication in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonding
Explanation: The story emphasizes the special bond between the granddaughter and her grandfather, showing how their shared memories and time together strengthen their relationship.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to spend quality time with family members, building strong emotional support systems.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Change and Loss
Explanation: As the grandfather's memory fades, the narrative gently addresses the themes of change and loss, which are inevitable parts of life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to changes and cope with loss in a healthy manner, understanding that it's a natural part of life.
Example Lesson: Preservation of Memories
Explanation: Through the story, the importance of preserving memories and the impact of storytelling are highlighted, as the granddaughter recounts fond moments with her grandfather.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to cherish and preserve personal and family memories, perhaps through journaling, storytelling, or creative arts.