Does Blake Keep the Secret?
What’s inside...
This is the first book in a series designed to explain tough situations to children and families. It focuses on teaching the difference between secrets and surprises, and why understanding this distinction is important for children's interactions with adults. The book covers critical thinking skills, recognizing safe and unsafe feelings and behaviors, and identifying a child's safety network. It includes a simple storyline for children to grasp the concept easily, with additional pages for parents to continue the conversation. The book aims to help prevent child abuse by empowering children with knowledge and strategies to protect themselves.
Age
2-12
Length
27 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did you feel when Blake was keeping the secret? What would you have done in his place?
Why do you think secrets can sometimes make us feel uncomfortable?
What are some good reasons for keeping a secret, and some reasons why it might be better to share it?
How did Blake’s decision affect his friends and family?
Can you think of a time when you had to decide whether to keep a secret or share it? What did you choose to do, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing a similar experience from your own life where you faced a dilemma about keeping or sharing a secret. This will make your child feel more at ease and understood.
Encourage your child to put themselves in Blake’s shoes and explore different perspectives by asking how they would feel if they were one of the other characters in the story.
Reinforce the idea that it’s okay to have mixed feelings about secrets, and that it’s important to consider the consequences of keeping or sharing them.
Celebrate your child’s insights and empathetic responses to show that their thoughts and feelings are valued.
Keep the conversation light and engaging, allowing your child to express their ideas freely while guiding them gently to reflect deeper on the subject.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Blake faces a challenging situation where he must decide whether to keep a secret or be honest. His choice highlights the significance of truthfulness.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that being honest, even when it's tough, builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront difficult situations
Explanation: The story demonstrates how Blake summons the courage to face his fears when deciding to divulge the secret, showcasing bravery.
Real-World Application: Children understand that facing their fears, rather than avoiding them, is a vital step in problem-solving and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Empathy and considering others' feelings
Explanation: Blake learns to consider how keeping or revealing the secret could affect others, teaching empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to think about how their actions can impact others, encouraging them to be more considerate.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and making decisions
Explanation: Throughout the book, Blake grapples with the responsibility that comes with knowing a secret, leading to his ultimate decision.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that with knowledge comes responsibility, and making decisions is a fundamental life skill.