Toddle Turtle's Odyssey
What’s inside...
One rainy day in spring while walking with his family en route to his grandparents' log, a young turtle named Toddle finds himself lost. He encounters unfamiliar places and several obstacles while searching for his mother, father, and sister. Follow Toddle's many encounters, close calls, and good decisions to see what a brave turtle he has become.
Discussion points
What did Toddle Turtle learn on his adventure? How do you think he felt during his journey?
Why do you think Toddle Turtle decided to help the friends he met along the way?
Can you think of a time when you were brave like Toddle Turtle? What did you do?
How did the places Toddle Turtle visited differ from each other? Which place would you like to visit and why?
What does friendship mean to you? How do you help your friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Toddle Turtle's experiences, relating them to their own life.
Use a map to trace Toddle Turtle’s journey, making it a fun visual connection to the story’s locales.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story, asking your child to think about the importance of courage and kindness.
While reading, point out the colorful illustrations and ask what they notice, enhancing their observation and description skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: In the story, Toddle Turtle faces numerous challenges during his journey, such as crossing a busy road and navigating a large pond. Despite these obstacles, he never gives up.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in their everyday lives by persisting through difficulties in school or in learning new skills, understanding that challenges are part of growth and success.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout his odyssey, Toddle Turtle encounters various creatures who offer him guidance and companionship, showcasing the importance of building and relying on friendships.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to foster friendships and to be supportive friends themselves, thereby enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Toddle Turtle’s journey highlights the beauty and diversity of the natural world, touching on themes of environmental preservation and respect for different habitats.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take care of their surroundings, appreciate nature, and engage in activities like recycling or planting trees as a way to protect the environment.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: As Toddle Turtle embarks on his odyssey, he bravely ventures into unfamiliar environments, learning to overcome his fear and embrace new experiences.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be open to new experiences, whether it's trying new food, meeting new people, or exploring new places, thereby broadening their horizons and building self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Toddle Turtle is faced with puzzles and challenges that he must think through and solve, effectively portraying the necessity of critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of thinking critically and solving problems, skills that are applicable in academic settings and in personal life situations.