on Goodreads (465)
What’s inside...
In 'When', a little bear shares his dreams of his future with his mother. The bear imagines himself growing up to be funny and curious, wild and free, expressing his aspirations in a heartfelt conversation with his mother. A celebration of love between a bear and cub, one little bear shares his hopes and dreams in this picture-book treasure from the ever-popular Emma Dodd. This line of books features rhyming text and delightful artwork that is embellished with foil throughout.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-3
Length
11 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters in the story felt when...?
What would you have done if you were in their place?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to any of the characters?
Why is it important to help and care for friends?
How do you think the story would change if...?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Validate their emotions and provide examples from your own experiences that relate to the themes in the book. Use puppetry or role-play to recreate scenes from the book, helping your child to empathize with the characters. Ask your child to draw a scene they liked, and discuss what they enjoyed about it. Incorporate pauses after each question, giving your child time to think and articulate their responses fully.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Patience
Explanation: The story illustrates the value of patience through repetitive scenarios where the young character waits for outcomes, teaching children that some things take time.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding that waiting is part of processes like growth, learning new skills, or waiting for their turn.
Example Lesson: Understanding Change
Explanation: The book addresses changes that occur in everyday life, helping children learn that change is a natural and constant aspect of life.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children adapt to new environments, such as moving to a new school or adjusting to a new family member.
Example Lesson: Value of Curiosity
Explanation: Emma Dodd’s narrative encourages curiosity through the protagonist’s questions about the world, highlighting that asking questions is a way to gain knowledge and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their surroundings and ask questions, enhancing their learning and engagement with the world around them.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The interactions between characters demonstrate empathy and understanding, teaching children to consider others' feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be empathetic towards friends and family, understanding different emotions and how to respond to them constructively.