The Worry Web Site
on Goodreads (4,838)
What’s inside...
A wonderful collection of linked short stories from a bestselling author, centered around a helpful teacher, Mr. Speed, who uses a Worry Web Site to offer advice to his students. Students like Holly, Greg, and Samantha log on to the site with their problems, ranging from family issues to unrequited love, and find guidance and acceptance through the wisdom shared on the site. No problem is too large or too small for the Worry Web Site or the special teacher at the helm.
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Holly
Jade
William
Lisa
Greg
Natasha
Mr Speed
Discussion points
How did the characters in the story handle their worries? What methods can we try when we feel worried?
What did you learn from the character, Sam, about friendship and support?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend like the characters in the book?
Why do you think it's important to share our worries with others, just like the characters did on the Worry Web Site?
What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story about a time you felt worried and how you managed it.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to express their feelings freely.
Relate the story's situations to real-life scenarios your child might encounter to make the discussion relevant.
Ask your child to draw or write about a worry they have, and discuss it together, exploring possible solutions or ways to cope.
Create a 'worry web site' box at home where family members can drop notes about their worries, to openly discuss later, emulating the supportive environment in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Throughout 'The Worry Website', the characters share their personal worries and learn to understand each other’s feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to listen and understand their peers' emotions and situations, fostering a more empathetic and supportive environment at school and home.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book showcases characters coming together to find solutions to each other's problems, promoting teamwork and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply collaborative problem-solving approaches in their interactions with friends and in group projects.
Example Lesson: Expressing feelings
Explanation: Characters in the book are encouraged to articulate their fears and concerns in a safe space, which helps them cope and find support.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to openly communicate their feelings can help them develop emotional intelligence and build strong relationships.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: As the characters confront their worries, they learn important lessons about overcoming adversity and building resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to face their own challenges with courage and persistence, understanding that overcoming obstacles is part of learning and growing.
Example Lesson: Importance of seeking help
Explanation: The story underscores the value of seeking help from others when dealing with difficult issues, rather than keeping problems to oneself.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of asking for help from parents, teachers, or friends when they feel overwhelmed, fostering a supportive community.