Watch Me Bloom
on Goodreads (66)
What’s inside...
Mindful haiku poems to help us rediscover our natural surroundings, without traveling too far from home. Some flowers are the subject of nursery rhymes and childhood games while others help us celebrate love, remember our homelands or mark the passing seasons. These mindful haiku poems invite us to explore twenty-four flower species growing close to home, from wildflower meadows to urban window boxes. The nature-themed follow up to My Mindful A to Zen, this gorgeous collection of poems teaches us that treating ourselves and our planet mindfully can also be a treat for the senses.
Discussion points
How do you think the character felt when they faced a challenge? Can you relate to their feelings?
What is one thing you learned from the character's journey?
What would you have done differently if you were in the character's place?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in our town?
What does 'blooming' mean to you after reading this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and voice modulation to make the story more vivid and engaging.
After reading a significant event in the book, pause and ask your child how they feel about what just happened.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from the book that they found interesting or meaningful.
Connect themes from the book to real-life situations or your child’s personal experiences to make the themes more relatable.
Discuss the character's emotions and decisions to help your child understand different perspectives and develop empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: In 'Watch Me Bloom', the protagonist goes through various stages of growth, learning to adapt and embrace each new phase.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to accept and find joy in new experiences, such as starting a new school year or welcoming a new family member.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The main character faces challenges but continues to strive towards her goals, demonstrating the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of continuing to try, even when tasks are difficult, whether it's solving a tough math problem or learning a new sport.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: As the character in 'Watch Me Bloom' grows, she learns to love herself for who she is, regardless of external changes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their own unique qualities and feel confident in their self-image, promoting mental well-being and resilience.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: The book shows the natural progression of growth, teaching that some things cannot be rushed and require time to develop.
Real-World Application: Kids can understand the importance of patience in everyday situations, such as waiting their turn in games or the gradual mastering of new skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The setting of 'Watch Me Bloom' highlights the beauty and complexity of the natural world, encouraging a connection with the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to explore and respect nature, fostering environmentally responsible behavior from a young age.