Activities for children reading Theodora Bear
- as you read Theodora Bear, ask your child what is going to happen next. Remember that there are no wrong guesses! The more creative they are, the better. This activity helps children learn about plot devices and stretches their imaginations.
- help your child write a new adventure for Theodora and her friends. The animals should do something to exasperate Harriet, and Harriet has to try to figure out how to deal with it. This activity helps children learn about characterization in their writing.
- for children who prefer art to writing, ask them to draw a picture based on one of the chapters and write a caption for it. This activity helps children relate their art interest to reading.
- with your child, visit illustrator Barbara Spurll's website. As you look through her portfolio with your child, ask them which pictures they like the best. Ask them to look for some small details in each picture. Also ask them what makes the pictures funny, playful, or sad. When children look at the components of a picture, it helps them understand art.
- encourage your child to ask me a question about the book, about other books, about my writing or teaching, or any other questions they have. I will answer on this web site within one week to ten days. Hearing about how an author works can help children enjoy writing and books.
Dear Parent,
I hope both you and your child will enjoy Theodora Bear. I hope you will find it a funny book.
Harriet is an independent, strong little
girl, but her stuffed animals always try to boss her around and she can't
always get them to see reason. The stories take place in the world of children and their stuffed animals. Adults are not allowed in!
Many of Harriet's difficulties with her animals, however, reflect parents'
difficulties when negotiating with their children.
If you have any questions or comments for me, I would be happy to hear
from you (click here for contact information).
Yours truly,