Topsy and Tim Have New Bikes (Topsy & Tim)
#15 of 42 in Topsy + Tim Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
This Topsy & Tim title features the two children in a real life situation, which is entertaining and familiar to young children.
Character compass
Topsy
Tim
Mummy
Discussion points
How do you feel when you try something new, like Topsy and Tim with their new bikes?
What are some rules we should remember when riding bikes to stay safe?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like Topsy and Tim?
What would you like to do if you had a whole day to spend with your new bike?
What did Topsy and Tim learn from their new experience, and what did you learn from reading about it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use positive reinforcement as your child responds, affirming their feelings and thoughts to foster a supportive dialogue.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences with new activities or challenges to make the discussion more relatable and impactful.
Focus on the emotions portrayed in the story such as excitement or nervousness, and ask your child how they have felt similar emotions in their own experiences.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe what their perfect day with a new bike would look like, enhancing their engagement and creativity.
Summarize the key lessons from the book together and discuss how these lessons can be applied in real life, ensuring the book’s themes are well understood and appreciated.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Topsy and Tim learn the importance of taking care of their new bikes, emphasizing the value of responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking care of their own belongings, ensuring they are maintained and stored properly.
Example Lesson: Safety Awareness
Explanation: Throughout the book, Topsy and Tim are taught to wear helmets and check their bikes before riding, highlighting the importance of safety.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the need for safety equipment and precautions in various aspects of their life, not just when riding bikes.
Example Lesson: Sharing
Explanation: Topsy and Tim share their excitement and new bikes with their friends, demonstrating the value of sharing joy and possessions with others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their own toys or experiences with friends, which can help in building stronger friendships and social bonds.
Example Lesson: Independence
Explanation: Learning to ride their new bikes gives Topsy and Tim a sense of independence and accomplishment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take on new challenges and activities independently, fostering growth and confidence.