Willbee the Bumblebee
What’s inside...
Willbee the Bumblebee is a delightful story about a bumblebee named Willbee who is embarrassed when his black-and-yellow jacket unravels, revealing his bare bum. With assistance from Monica the butterfly and Steve the spider, Willbee retrieves his jacket and regains his confidence. This tale, complemented by catchy rhymes and charming illustrations, emphasizes the importance of friendship and teamwork.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Willbee felt when he lost his stripy sweater? What would you do if you were in his place?
What did you learn about teamwork from the way Willbee and his friends worked together?
Why is it important to help others in need, as shown in the story when Willbee's friends helped him?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone and how it made you feel?
What would you design for a new sweater for Willbee? What colors and patterns would you choose?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions by relating to Willbee's experiences. Listen actively to their thoughts and feelings.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness, drawing parallels to the actions of Willbee's friends in the story.
Use the book’s illustrations to engage your child’s imagination, asking them to describe or draw their favorite scene.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like designing a new sweater for Willbee together, using art supplies to bring their ideas to life.
Reinforce the lessons from the book by recognizing and praising your child’s acts of kindness and teamwork in real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Kindness and helping others
Explanation: In the story, Willbee the Bumblebee loses his stripy sweater and feels embarrassed. A friendly child and bird help him by knitting a new sweater, demonstrating kindness and support.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to assist others in need, whether it's helping a friend who's lost something or offering comfort to someone who's upset.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: When Willbee loses his sweater, he experiences various emotions but eventually overcomes his troubles with the help of his friends. This shows resilience and the importance of facing difficulties head-on.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to keep going despite setbacks and to use resources around them, such as friends and family, for support.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: The bond between Willbee and his friends in the book highlights the importance of friendship and teamwork. Friends look out for each other and work together to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cultivate and value friendships, understanding that teamwork can lead to greater achievements and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Creative problem-solving
Explanation: The resolution of Willbee’s dilemma through knitting a new sweater is an example of creative problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think creatively when faced with problems and understand that there can be innovative solutions to everyday issues.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of self and others
Explanation: Willbee is initially embarrassed about losing his sweater but learns to accept himself with the help of his friends. This teaches self-acceptance and empathy towards others' situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be comfortable in their own skin and embrace differences among peers, promoting inclusivity and self-esteem.