Char Bear Keeps Dancing
illustrations by
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
A children's book to promote awareness, action, and advocacy for the pediatric epilepsy known as infantile spasms. Written by a parent of a child diagnosed with infantile spasms and two physicians, the book is uplifting and informative.
Age
0-18
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Char Bear loves dancing so much?
How did Char Bear feel when others were watching her perform?
Can you think of a time when you were nervous to try something new, like Char Bear was?
What does this story teach us about practice and perseverance?
How did the other characters in the book support Char Bear?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions by relating to Char Bear’s experiences.
Discuss the importance of trying new things and overcoming fears, drawing parallels to the child's own life.
Highlight the supportive roles of friends and family in the story, and ask your child about who supports them in their endeavors.
After reading, engage in a small dance activity with your child to make the connection between the story and real-life fun.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Char Bear faces various challenges but keeps dancing regardless of the obstacles. This demonstrates the importance of perseverance and not giving up even when things get tough.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to work towards their goals, such as learning a new skill or overcoming a difficult subject in school, despite facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: Through dancing, Char Bear builds confidence, which is portrayed when he performs in front of his friends.
Real-World Application: Kids can relate this to their lives by engaging in activities they enjoy and excel at, which can boost their self-esteem and confidence in public presentations or performances.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The book showcases Char Bear's unique dance moves, highlighting creative expression through the arts.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to express themselves creatively, whether in dance, drawing, writing, or any form of art, fostering a sense of individuality and innovation.
Example Lesson: Supportiveness
Explanation: Char Bear's friends support his passion for dancing, which positively affects his performance and confidence.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of supporting their friends' interests and passions, which can strengthen friendships and build a supportive community.
Example Lesson: Joy in Learning
Explanation: Char Bear shows immense joy in learning and mastering new dances, making the process enjoyable.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to find joy in the learning process itself, making education a delightful and engaging experience.