Who's scaring Alfie Atkins?
#10 in Alfons Åberg Series
What’s inside...
Even though he knows there is no such thing as ghosts, Alfie feels frightened when he is alone or in the dark.
Discussion points
Why do you think Alfie Atkins felt scared? How would you feel in his situation?
What strategies did Alfie use to cope with his fears? Have you ever tried something similar?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend who felt scared? What did you do?
How did the story end, and what did Alfie learn about being scared?
What are some ways we can help each other when we're feeling scared or worried?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, maintain an empathic tone to make your child comfortable sharing their fears and thoughts.
Encourage your child to connect their personal experiences with Alfie’s, which enhances understanding and empathy.
Highlight Alfie’s coping strategies and discuss their effectiveness, prompting your child to think of other possible solutions.
Reassure your child that feeling scared is normal, and discuss the importance of seeking comfort from loved ones.
After reading, engage in a calming activity your child enjoys, reinforcing that they are safe and supported.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Facing Fears
Explanation: In the story, Alfie confronts his fear of the dark and unknown noises at night. The narrative encourages bravery and facing fears head-on.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by addressing their own fears, whether it be of the dark, trying new activities, or meeting new people. This encourages personal growth and bravery.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Alfie uses creativity and reasoning to understand and solve the mystery of the scary noises, teaching children to think logically and calmly in uncertain situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children approach their problems—big or small—by analyzing the situation and thinking of possible solutions before acting.
Example Lesson: Seeking Comfort and Support
Explanation: Alfie seeks reassurance and comfort from his father, demonstrating the importance of asking for help when needed.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of communicating their concerns to parents, teachers, or friends, reinforcing the idea of seeking support during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: The book explores Alfie's emotions as he navigates his fears, helping children identify and understand their own range of feelings.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in recognizing and naming their emotions, which is a vital step in emotional intelligence and mental well-being.
Example Lesson: Building Confidence
Explanation: Through his adventures, Alfie builds confidence as he manages to overcome his fears, showcasing personal development and growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to take on challenges, boosting their confidence and self-esteem as they conquer each new experience.