There's a Big, Beautiful World Out There!
on Goodreads (64)
What’s inside...
There are a lot of things to be scared of, including mean-looking dogs, thunderstorms, spiders, and unfamiliar people. These fears may prompt one to hide under the covers and avoid confronting them. However, hiding does not resolve the fears. This book provides reassurance and encouragement to young readers to face their fears and embrace the positive experiences that life has to offer.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some new things you’d like to try after reading this book?
How do you think the character felt when they tried something new?
What are some ways you can be brave like the character?
How do you feel when you're about to try something you've never done before?
Can you think of a time when you were scared to try something new but ended up having fun?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about trying new activities, and relate them to the character's experiences in the book. Share personal stories of facing fears to foster a deeper connection. Use the illustrations in the book as a starting point to discuss the emotions and scenarios depicted. Affirm and validate your child's feelings about new experiences, emphasizing the positive outcomes and growth opportunities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: The book portrays a child who learns to face her fears about the world by exploring and learning about it.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to confront their own fears by learning more about them, whether it’s trying a new activity or asking questions about something that scares them.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The protagonist's journey underscores the importance of curiosity and how it leads to a better understanding of the world.
Real-World Application: Kids can be motivated to ask questions and seek out new experiences, fostering a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the child in the story meets different people and experiences various situations, they learn to understand and empathize with others.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate diversity and develop an understanding of people who may be different from them, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Bravery in Facing the Unknown
Explanation: The book encourages stepping outside of one’s comfort zone to discover new things.
Real-World Application: This lesson is crucial when children are hesitant to try new activities or meet new friends, teaching them the value of bravery and adventure.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of the World
Explanation: Through exploration, the main character learns to see the beauty in the world and not just the fears projected by news or adults.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to focus on positive aspects of their surroundings and develop a joyous and appreciative view of life.