Thomas and the Dinosaur (Thomas & Friends) (Little Golden Book)
#45 of 660 in Thomas and Friends Series
What’s inside...
Thomas, the small, mischievous engine, meets a dinosaur on the tracks. He must use his wit and courage to save the day and make a new friend. In another encounter, Thomas the Tank Engine and his friend Percy are startled—and scared—to see a dinosaur in the forest. This thrilling adventure is perfect for train- and dinosaur-obsessed boys and girls ages 3 to 7.
Discussion points
What do you think Thomas learned from his adventure with the dinosaur?
How would you feel if you met a dinosaur like Thomas did?
What would you do if you found a dinosaur in your backyard?
Why do you think the dinosaur was important to the story?
How did Thomas and his friends help each other throughout the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own dinosaur adventure, discussing what kind of dinosaur they would meet and where the adventure would take place.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene from the book, then discuss what's happening in their drawing and how it relates to the story.
Use expressive voices for different characters when reading the book aloud, making the story more engaging and helping distinguish between the characters' perspectives.
After reading, relate the story to your child’s own experiences with friendship and teamwork, asking them about times they have worked together with friends to solve a problem.
Discuss the feelings of the characters in various parts of the book, asking your child how they think each character felt during key moments and why.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Thomas shows bravery as he encounters the dinosaur, teaching children that it's okay to face and overcome their fears.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by tackling challenges such as trying new activities or making new friends, despite feeling nervous or scared.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Thomas's adventure with the dinosaur sparks curiosity and promotes exploring the unknown, which is depicted through his journey.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to explore new subjects in school, ask questions, and engage in discovery-based learning activities.
Example Lesson: Friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Thomas learns the importance of working together with friends to solve problems which they encounter along the way.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of cooperating with others, whether it's during group projects in school or in playing team sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience in problem-solving
Explanation: Thomas encounters various obstacles during his adventure with the dinosaur and finds creative ways to navigate challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be resilient and inventive in their problem-solving, applying these skills in their academic and personal lives.
Example Lesson: Respect for differences
Explanation: Thomas learns to appreciate the dinosaur despite their differences, which teaches acceptance and understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of respecting and celebrating individual differences among their peers.