Jabari Jumps - Beyond the Book Resources
I love this book because it rings true. So many stories focused on children's fears seem stilted and unrealistic. The challenge is almost too big for a child believe. This story of a little boy finding the courage to take his first jump off the diving board is written in a way that makes me think that much of what is written actually happened. His supportive family helps him find the moment that is just right for him.
I believe the thing that I like the most about the story, is that it's told in first person. Through the narrator I can tell that she never seems upset about her eyes being different from the others in her school. No one makes fun of her, she doesn't run home crying about being different, she acknowledges the difference and then as the story unfolds, she begins to understand why her eyes look the way they do. Ultimately there's a sense of pride that emerges.
Making a connection is one of the most important prerequisites for getting a child excited about the prospect of learning to read.
Themes: Family Courage Bravery Fears
Awards: 2018 Charlotte Zolotow Award 2018 ALSC Notable Children's Books 2018 Junior Library Guild Selection
Teachable Moments:
This book offers multiple opportunities for learning that go far beyond what's printed on the page or seen in the illustrations. Here's a small sample:
Emotions - Describe how Jabari feels throughout the book.
Steps in a process (diving)
Goal setting
Growth mindset
Examples Shown with Images are for Reference Only - Not Part of the Download
Extend the Learning with Story-Based Play
Adding an element of play is another way to deepen your child’s understanding of concepts within and beyond a story. According to Hall (1991), young children often develop advanced literacy skills when they engage in play related to a familiar story. Many complex literacy skills develop naturally when the story and play intersect, setting the stage for your child to learn to read and write.
It’s easy. Take a great story, gather toys that align with that story, and get out of the way. Your child will do the rest. The goal is to allow the play to evolve naturally. You’ll be surprised by the amount of learning transferred and reinforced through this type of play.
Here’s Why We Love These Specific Products:
They have direct connections to the book.
They reinforce new vocabulary.
They encourage imaginative play
They make it easy to re-enact parts of the story.
They often take learning beyond the confines of the story.
Few require batteries, screens, or electricity.
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