Two Left Feet
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
Barclay McClay has two left feet. It wouldn't worry him much, except that he loves to dance. When he works out that he can't tread on anyone's toes if he tap-dances, he thinks that his problem is solved.
Why read this book
- Encourages self-expression and uniqueness in children.
- Highlights the importance of friendship and acceptance.
- Engaging storytelling that captures children's imagination.
- Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about Randy feeling different because of his two left feet? Have you ever felt different from others?
How did Randy's friends help him feel better? Why is it important to support our friends?
What does the story teach us about accepting and celebrating our differences?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone feel better about something that made them feel different?
How do you think the story would change if Randy didn’t have any friends to support him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about times they’ve felt different, drawing parallels to Randy’s experiences in the story.
Discuss the importance of friendship and empathy. Ask your child to think of ways they can be a good friend like Randy’s friends in the book.
Highlight the positive message of accepting and celebrating each other’s differences. Discuss with your child the strengths in diversity.
Use examples from the book to instill confidence in your child about embracing their own unique qualities.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings to the story based on different character reactions or support levels, fostering creativity and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: In 'Two Left Feet', the protagonist learns to accept and embrace their unique way of dancing despite not conforming to traditional styles.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by valuing their unique traits and expressing themselves confidently in social settings, such as school or during playtime.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The story highlights the protagonist's journey of practicing and improving, showing that dedication leads to better skills and self-satisfaction.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to persist in their activities, be it sports or academics, understanding that effort will lead to improvement over time.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: As others initially laugh at the protagonist's unique dance moves, the narrative teaches the importance of respecting and celebrating differences in others.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy and become more accepting of peers who may seem different from them, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Joy in Self-Expression
Explanation: The book portrays dancing as a form of joyous self-expression, regardless of skill level.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to find and indulge in activities that make them happy, using them as outlets for expressing their feelings and creativity.
Example Lesson: Supportive Friendships
Explanation: Friends in the story encourage the protagonist and appreciate their unique style, showing the impact of having supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the importance of choosing friends who uplift and support one another, a crucial aspect as children navigate their social environments.