5 Incredible ways this silly story can help prepare your child for kindergarten

Jul 31

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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Additional Richard T. Thomas Titles

Bear Came Along is entertaining, educational and hilarious all at the same time. The book features themes like perseverance and working together which are sure to provoke interesting conversations.

Listed below are 5 educational concepts you can sneak in as you read this book with your child.

Cause/Effect
This story follows a chain reaction of events as various animals unintentionally join Bear on a river journey. There are many opportunities for you to explain and discuss cause-and-effect relationships with your preschooler . Upon additional readings of the story, invite your child to label each cause & effect event as it occurs.
Order of Events/Sequencing
The text has a clear sequence of events that unfold as the characters encounter challenges and surprises. Reading a book like this one can help a child grasp the concept of chronological order or first next last, which in turn supports an understanding of narrative structure.
Vocabulary
Bear Came Along introduces children to a wide variety of words related to nature, emotions, and teamwork.
On our homepage, you can read about the critical role vocabulary plays in your child’s education. Take any opportunity you find to teach new words, show photos online if possible, and make a big deal when your child uses a newly acquired word correctly in conversation.
Collaboration/Teamwork
As the animals embark on their unexpected adventure, the book emphasizes the value of collaboration and teamwork. Use this story to teach your child about the benefits of working together, sharing responsibilities, and achieving common goals.
Resilience or Grit
The characters in this story experience multiple “ups and downs” during their adventure. Talk about each moment and callout examples of emotions, resilience, and problem-solving. If you begin teaching your child early about facing challenges and having a positive attitude towards any task, you will be giving your child a huge advantage over others when it’s time to start “real school”.