Toys in Space
#1 of 2 in Toys in Space Series
on Goodreads (618)
What’s inside...
In 'Toys in Space' by Mini Grey, a group of toys is left outside overnight, and they embark on an unexpected adventure when they are whisked away by a spaceship. The toys meet a lonely alien named Hoctopize, who has been collecting lost toys from Earth. The alien is searching for someone to play with, and the toys help Hoctopize understand the importance of friendship and returning home. Together, they devise a plan to return all the toys to their rightful owners. The story combines themes of friendship, belonging, and the joy of returning home after an extraordinary journey.
Discussion points
What do you think the toys felt when they were left outside at night?
How do you think the toys helped each other during their adventure in space?
What would you do if you found an alien toy lost and alone?
Can you imagine creating a new game for all the toys in the book to play together?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, altering your voice for each toy to make the reading experience more engaging.
Ask your child to pick their favorite toy from the story and describe why they like it, fostering a deeper connection to the narrative.
Pause at key moments to predict what might happen next, encouraging your child's imagination and anticipation.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a scene from the book or even invent a new toy character, enhancing their creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Toys in Space,' the toys come together to help find their lost friend, showcasing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by collaborating with their peers on group projects or in sports, learning the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Handling Fear and Anxiety
Explanation: The story addresses handling nighttime fears when the toys are left outside. It illustrates how they support each other, mitigating fear through companionship and bravery.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that it’s okay to be scared and that seeking comfort and support from those around them can be soothing.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: As the toys venture into space, the imaginative setting encourages children to think creatively and explore the bounds of their imaginations.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their creativity in play, storytelling, or art, helping to foster innovative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When the toys need to find a way back to their owner, they come up with a creative plan, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of brainstorming and coming up with solutions when faced with challenges in school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The toys learn to understand the fears and feelings of their new alien friend, cultivating empathy and social awareness.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of others, aiding in social interaction and emotional intelligence development.