What's the Magic Word?
What’s inside...
A newly-hatched bird is blown around the farmyard by a strong wind, learning passwords to enter different animal's homes but is blown away again before he can enter. Meanwhile, budding ballet stars take readers through each step and pirouette from ballet class to the final curtsies of a big show.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the magic word change the way the characters interacted with each other in the story?
Can you think of a time when you used a magic word and it helped you? What happened?
Why do you think it's important to use magic words like 'please' and 'thank you'?
How do you feel when someone uses kind words with you?
What are some other magic words we can use every day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, discuss with your child what they think the 'magic word' could be and why it might be considered magical.
Encourage your child to reflect on their own experiences as they relate to the story, fostering a personal connection to the book's themes.
Praise your child for using 'magic words’ in their daily life, reinforcing the positive behavior highlighted in the book.
After reading, use role-play to practice scenarios where they can use magic words, enhancing their understanding and application of politeness and kindness.
Create a 'magic words' poster together with your child, listing the words from the book and any others they find impactful, making it a fun and educational activity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of politeness
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters showcase the use of 'please' and 'thank you', emphasizing courteous behavior.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use polite words in their daily interactions, fostering respect and good manners with friends and adults.
Example Lesson: The power of sharing
Explanation: Characters in the story often share their belongings, highlighting the joy and community spirit that comes from generosity.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to share their toys and resources with peers at school or siblings at home, building a sense of empathy and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist takes care of their belongings and completes tasks they are given, demonstrating accountability.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be responsible for their tasks, such as cleaning up toys or finishing homework.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The book presents characters facing small challenges which they solve using creative and logical thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these problem-solving skills to overcome obstacles in schoolwork or in social situations.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: Characters in the book come from diverse backgrounds and the story teaches acceptance and understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in appreciating the diverse cultures and personalities they encounter daily at school or in the community.