What's Cooking, Arlo?
What’s inside...
Arlo, a charming young fox, embarks on a culinary adventure as he tries to find the perfect recipe to share with his friends at the school potluck. Through trials and laughter, Arlo learns the true essence of cooking and friendship. While cleaning the garden, Arlo and his friends look for something special to inspire a new recipe. At first, they come up empty-handed. But after searching high and low, they make a delicious discovery. Can Arlo use what they've found to cook up today's special? Find out in this early graphic novel that will warm young readers' hearts with a perfect recipe for friendship and fun.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What different foods did Arlo try in the story?
How did Arlo feel when he was cooking? Can you describe a time you felt the same way?
Why is it important to try new things, just like Arlo did?
What would you cook if you were in the kitchen like Arlo?
How did Arlo's friends react to the food he made? How do you think that made him feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to talk about their own experiences with trying new foods or activities, drawing parallels to Arlo’s adventures. Use expressive questions that invite more than a yes or no response to deepen the conversation. Relate the themes of curiosity and learning to your child’s everyday activities to reinforce the message of the book. Highlight the importance of friendship and sharing, as seen in Arlo’s interactions with his friends, to teach social skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: Arlo the dinosaur learns to share his favorite treats and cooking supplies with his friends, demonstrating the joy and community that comes from sharing.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their toys or snacks with friends, fostering a sense of generosity and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: Throughout the book, Arlo follows recipes carefully, which teaches the importance of following instructions to achieve desired outcomes.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to pay attention to and follow instructions in school assignments, games, or household chores, building their ability to focus and follow through.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: When Arlo encounters a problem that he cannot solve with the original plan, he uses creative thinking to find a new solution, showcasing adaptive thinking.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think creatively when they encounter obstacles, whether in homework, play, or interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of Patience
Explanation: Arlo must wait for his culinary creations to be ready, teaching children that patience is crucial for achieving well-cooked meals and worthwhile results.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of waiting patiently for their turn or for outcomes in various situations like during games or school activities.
Example Lesson: Culinary Skills and Nutrition
Explanation: Arlo explores various recipes and ingredients, introducing children to basic culinary skills and the importance of nutrition.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to help in the kitchen, learning about healthy eating and basic cooking which promotes self-reliance and awareness about food choices.