Elmer Book and Toy Gift Set
Elmer Series
on Goodreads (13,785)
What’s inside...
This gift set includes a picture book and a plush toy of Elmer, the patchwork elephant. Elmer is not like other elephants - he's multicolored. In the story, Elmer discovers that his unique colors bring joy to the other elephants and learns to embrace and celebrate his differences. McKee's gentle humor and love of irony are in full force in this celebration of individuality and laughter. David McKee's comical fable about everyone’s favorite patchwork elephant teaches readers to be themselves and celebrates the power of laughter.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Elmer
The Elephant Herd
Discussion points
What makes Elmer different from the other elephants and how do you think that makes him feel?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did it make you feel?
Why do you think it's important for Elmer to celebrate his uniqueness?
How do the other elephants in the herd treat Elmer and what does this teach us about friendship?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the themes of uniqueness and acceptance found in 'Elmer'. Relate discussions to their personal experiences to deepen understanding and empathy. Celebrate diversity by highlighting Elmer's colorful personality and how it brings joy to those around him. Utilize the toy from the gift set to make the story more interactive and to visually demonstrate the differences and similarities between Elmer and the other elephants.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: Elmer, the patchwork elephant, teaches children that it's okay to be different. His colorful appearance makes him stand out, yet he learns to embrace his uniqueness and finds joy in it.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to celebrate their own unique traits and those of others around them, promoting self-acceptance and diversity.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, Elmer's friends show acceptance and love towards him despite his differences. This demonstrates the value of friendship and support.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be supportive and kind friends in their own lives, fostering positive social interactions and relationships.
Example Lesson: The Power of Humor
Explanation: Elmer uses humor to bring his community together, showing that laughter can be a unifying force.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use humor in a positive way to connect with others and to diffuse difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Celebrating Diversity
Explanation: Elmer's Day, a special day for all the elephants, celebrates Elmer's unique patchwork. This part of the story highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating differences.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of inclusivity and respect for people from all walks of life.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery
Explanation: Elmer's journey of accepting his true self provides a narrative on self-discovery.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to explore and be confident in their own identity, fostering a strong sense of self.