Zara's Big Messy Playdate (Zara's Big Messy Books)
#3 in The "Big Messy" Book Series
What’s inside...
When Zara and Penelope have a big argument during a playdate, help arrives just in time to teach them how to handle tricky situations and express themselves effectively. Written by bestselling author and mom Rebekah Borucki, 'Zara's Big Messy Playdate' is the third book in the 'Big Messy' series, which aims to teach children and their caregivers to manage emotions safely. The book includes a guide by Alexandra Jamieson and Bob Gower, and free access to downloadable coloring pages, a guided meditation for kids, and more. This series provides tools like breathing exercises and affirmations to help young readers navigate their feelings.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of Zara’s playdate and why?
How do you think Zara felt when her playdate got really messy?
What would you have done if you were at Zara’s playdate?
Can you think of a time when you made a big mess? What happened?
How did Zara and her friends solve their problems in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and emotions about the story, relating it to their own experiences with messiness and play.
Ask your child to draw or act out their favorite scene, which can help deepen their connection to the story and its characters.
Discuss the consequences of messy play and the importance of cleaning up afterward, reinforcing lessons from the book.
Use the story as a way to discuss teamwork and cooperation with your child, focusing on how Zara and her friends worked together.
Praise your child for thoughtful answers and insights, helping to build their confidence in expressing their viewpoints.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of sharing
Explanation: In the story, Zara learns the importance of sharing her toys and space during a playdate, which leads to more fun and cooperative play.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their own belongings with friends and siblings, fostering better relationships and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Taking responsibility for one's actions
Explanation: Zara makes a mess during her playdate and learns to take responsibility by helping clean up, showing accountability for her actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to own up to their mistakes and contribute to solving problems they may cause, whether at home or in school.
Example Lesson: The importance of communication
Explanation: Throughout the playdate, Zara and her friends face small conflicts that are resolved through talking and expressing their feelings and needs, highlighting effective communication.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to learn how to express themselves clearly and resolve disputes with words rather than negative actions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: Zara and her friends use their imagination to turn simple objects into exciting playthings, emphasizing creativity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their creativity in play and problem solving, enhancing their cognitive development and enjoyment.
Example Lesson: Understanding boundaries
Explanation: Zara learns to respect her friend's boundaries when she is told that certain toys are off-limits, teaching respect for others' preferences and rules.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to respect other people’s boundaries and rules, which is crucial for social interaction and interpersonal relationships.