What's Up, Pup?
What’s inside...
This engaging picture book titled 'What's Up, Pup?' by Kersten Hamilton, with vibrant illustrations by Lili Chin, delves into the diverse ways dogs communicate their feelings and desires, making it an ideal read for dog enthusiasts of all ages. The book showcases how canines use various body parts like sniffers, ears, muzzles, rears, tail wags, and tongue flicks to express emotions such as wanting to play, needing affection, or expressing love, encouraging readers to observe their pets closely to understand their unique language.
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the puppy felt when it got lost?
What would you do if you found a lost puppy?
Why is it important to help others? Can you think of a time you helped someone?
What did you learn about being responsible from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the story in their own words, encouraging them to express their thoughts and feelings about the plot and characters. Use the questions to guide a deeper discussion, emphasizing empathy and responsibility. Relate the story to their personal experiences to make the conversation more meaningful. After the discussion, consider engaging in a related activity, such as drawing a picture of the puppy or acting out a favorite scene together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: Through the story, children see how the main character, a playful puppy, learns to understand and share the feelings of others in various situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing emotions in their peers and offering kindness and support in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The puppy is tasked with various small responsibilities, which it learns to manage with the help of its friends.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to handling their own responsibilities, like cleaning up toys or feeding pets, thereby enhancing their sense of duty.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: The book showcases the puppy making new friends and learning the value of friendships through trust and mutual support.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and nurture friendships in their own lives, understanding the essential role of trust and support.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: The puppy faces and overcomes various fears with the encouragement from its friends.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to face their own fears, be it trying out new activities or overcoming shyness, knowing that it's okay to seek help from friends or family.