Winnie Plays Ball: Brand New Readers
#1 in Brand New Readers Series
What’s inside...
Winnie the dog plays with a ball in this cheerful, amusing story for beginner readers. The book is designed for first-time readers, enabling them to quickly master early reading skills. Helpful support notes for parents are provided. Visit www.brandnewreaders.com to learn more about this unique series — and to try one on-line! Based on research about how children learn to read, BRAND NEW READERS are short, funny stories with words and pictures that help children reading for the very first time succeed—and have fun! The series is for children who are just starting to read. Readers ages four to seven can master these books immediately, even the first time through. Each title includes four high-quality, full-color, eight-page paperback books in a sturdy slipcase, making them appealing and just right for first-time readers.
Discussion points
How do you think Winnie felt when she was playing ball? Can you describe a time when you felt the same way?
What do you think makes playing ball fun? What are other activities that you find fun?
Why is it important to take turns while playing games? How do you feel when it's your turn?
Winnie plays with friends in the book. What do you like to do with your friends?
How do you think the story would change if Winnie played a different game?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story, relating it to their own experiences with friends or playing sports.
Discuss the concept of teamwork and sharing during gameplay, emphasizing how Winnie and her friends interact in the story.
Ask questions about the illustrations and how they help tell the story, which can enhance visual literacy and attention to detail.
Reinforce the idea of taking turns and being patient, which are important social skills showcased in the book.
Use the story as a jumping-off point to plan a play date or a family game time, promoting reading as a fun, shared family experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: In 'Winnie Plays Ball,' Winnie and her friends work together to play a game of ball, showcasing how collaboration leads to a fulfilling playtime.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, which can be applied during group activities at school or in sports teams.
Example Lesson: Physical Activity
Explanation: The story encourages engaging in sports and outdoor activities, as Winnie and her friends are actively involved in playing ball.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to participate in physical exercise, which is crucial for their health and development.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When a problem arises in the game, Winnie and her peers find a solution together, illustrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to face challenges calmly and creatively, which is beneficial in their daily interactions and when facing academic challenges.
Example Lesson: Sharing
Explanation: Winnie shares the ball with her friends, showing the value of sharing and taking turns.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of sharing resources and time with others, fostering harmonious relationships.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Pleasures
Explanation: The happiness derived from playing a simple ball game highlights finding joy in everyday activities without the need for elaborate setups or toys.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to appreciate and find happiness in simple, non-materialistic activities, nurturing contentment and gratitude.