Thomas Comes to Breakfast (Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends)
#16 of 660 in Thomas and Friends Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (76)
What’s inside...
One day, Thomas the Tank Engine's driver joked that Thomas could almost do without a driver. This is the story of what happened when Thomas really did go out on his own - just as the Stationmaster was settling down to have breakfast. Thomas is convinced that he can drive himself! When he heads off on his own, he learns that stopping can be harder than starting. This classic story, originally by the Reverend W Awdry, has been adapted to appeal to the reader who is just beginning to read. Includes fun language building activities.
Discussion points
Why do you think Thomas didn't listen to the warning at the beginning?
How did Thomas' actions affect the other characters in the story?
What do you think Thomas learned from this experience?
If you were Thomas, what would you have done differently?
Can you think of a time when you made a mistake and what you learned from it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly discuss trains and their importance in transportation to set the context.
While reading, emphasize on how Thomas’ emotions change throughout the story. Ask your child to guess how Thomas might be feeling at different points and why.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next at several junctures. This promotes critical thinking about cause and effect.
After reading, connect the story to real-life by discussing the importance of listening and following instructions. Relate it to an instance your child might face, like at school or home.
Aid your child in relating to the characters by asking them to imagine themselves in similar situations and exploring potential different outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Thomas ignores advice and makes a risky decision to move without his driver, leading to chaos in the stationmaster's house.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of listening to advice and understanding the consequences of their actions, helping them make more responsible choices.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: Thomas’ decision to move on his own results in damage and distress, teaching him a valuable lesson about recklessness.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp that their actions have effects on themselves and others, emphasizing the need to think before acting.
Example Lesson: Acknowledgment of mistakes
Explanation: After the incident, Thomas acknowledges his mistake and learns from it, showing growth and maturity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to admit their mistakes and learn from them, fostering a growth mindset and better decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Listening to guidance
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of listening to more experienced individuals like the driver to avoid mishaps.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to value and consider guidance from parents, teachers, and other adults, which can prevent many practical problems.