Clara Clutter
#1 of 2 in Sporty Me Series
What’s inside...
Clutter seems to follow Clara everywhere. Even though her siblings tease her, she knows prim and proper is not her style. The whole world seems neat and tidy! Will Clara ever find a place where she feels at home? This is an awesome story for all kids who love basketball! Benny the Baller Loves Basketball is a sporty story about a little boy who grows up loving basketball. He is at the top of his group when he plays at his school playground; however, when he shows up at the neighborhood basketball court to join in, he finds out he will have to work a little harder in order to participate. This book is unique because it is designed for children who love basketball and are beginning readers. It is a perfect opportunity to own a book for your classroom or home bookshelf that will get the mini-basketball lovers engaged in reading! Benny will inspire children to keep practicing. Hard work and perseverance will pay off. The main character looks to solve his problem in a way that shows independence.
Discussion points
What do you think Clara learned at the end of her adventure?
Why do you think Clara kept holding onto things she no longer needed?
How did Clara's feelings change throughout the story, and what caused those changes?
Can you think of a time when you had to let go of something you loved but didn't need anymore?
How do you think Clara’s room looked at the end of the book compared to the beginning?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Clara's journey, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression.
Relate the story to your child's personal experiences by asking them about times they have had to organize or let go of their belongings.
Discuss the moral of the story, and how sometimes less can be more, to instill a sense of simplicity and satisfaction.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques, changing your tone to match the mood of the story, to keep your child engaged and enhance comprehension.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their version of Clara’s room before and after the decluttering to reinforce the story's themes visually.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The Importance of Organization
Explanation: Clara Clutter, the main character, learns to organize her room and belongings, which leads to her finding lost treasures and feeling less overwhelmed.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by keeping their own spaces tidy, helping them to be more responsible and improving their daily routine.
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: Throughout the book, Clara learns to let go of old items she no longer needs, showing how change can be beneficial.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to periodically reassess their own belongings and be open to changing habits, fostering adaptability and growth.
Example Lesson: The Value of Helping Others
Explanation: Clara's journey includes helping her friends organize their spaces, highlighting the joy and importance of helping others.
Real-World Application: Children can take initiative to help family and friends, strengthening social bonds and building community support.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When Clara faces the challenge of an overwhelmingly cluttered space, she devises a step-by-step plan to tackle it.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach their problems methodically, enhancing their critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Self-reflection and Personal Growth
Explanation: As Clara sorts through her belongings, she reflects on what each item means to her, leading to personal insights and growth.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to reflect on their own experiences and feelings through journaling or discussions with parents, aiding emotional development.