Chester the Brave (The Kissing Hand Series)
#6 in Chester the Raccoon Series
What’s inside...
Little Chester Raccoon, the beloved character who has helped so many children with issues in their lives, learns the meaning of bravery and a method for overcoming his fears in this new Audrey Penn title. After sharing the story of a little bird who is afraid to have flying lessons in front of his friends, Mrs. Raccoon tells Chester that being brave doesn't mean being unafraid; being brave means not letting that fear stop him. Mrs. Raccoon teaches Chester an important strategy: Think-Tell-Do. When he thinks he is afraid, he tells himself he can do it, and then he just does it. Of course, getting a Kissing Hand helps a little too. This simple strategy can be helpful to children in many different situations.
Character compass
Chester Raccoon
Mrs. Raccoon
Discussion points
What did Chester do in the story that showed he was brave? How did it make you feel?
Can you think of a time when you felt scared like Chester? What did you do?
Chester learned about bravery from his mother. Who teaches you about bravery, and what have you learned from them?
Why is it important to be brave, even when it's difficult?
How did Chester's friends react to his bravery? How do you think your friends would react if you did something similar?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think bravery means and give examples from your own experiences.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they think Chester might be feeling, and relate those feelings to real-life scenarios they might face.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of a time when they were brave, enhancing their connection to the theme of bravery.
Discuss the different characters’ reactions to Chester’s brave acts, and ask your child how they would support a friend in a similar situation.
Reinforce the message by relating it back to the child’s own life, discussing other aspects of their daily routine where they could demonstrate bravery.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Chester the raccoon learns to overcome his fear of speaking in front of his class about what makes him special.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing opportunities to speak or perform in public, seeing it as a chance to express themselves and grow in confidence.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: Through his journey, Chester discovers that everyone has something unique about them, which he learns to appreciate and respect.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value diversity among their peers and encourages them to be open and accepting towards everyone.
Example Lesson: Support from loved ones
Explanation: Chester is encouraged and supported by his mother's love and his friend's guidance, which helps him face his fear.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of seeking support from family and friends when facing challenges, understanding that they do not have to deal with difficulties alone.
Example Lesson: Self-expression
Explanation: Chester expresses what makes him special and learns the importance of self-expression.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to share their own thoughts and feelings more openly, which is vital for emotional development and building relationships.