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Emma Dilemma and the Soccer Nanny

#3 of 7 in Emma Dilemma Series

illustrations by
3.93
on Goodreads (54)

What’s inside...

Emma has a new dilemma involving her traveling soccer team's first game in Washington, DC. She hopes her cool Irish nanny, Annie, can be the team chaperone instead of her mom, who lacks soccer knowledge and wouldn't allow Emma's lucky ferret at the hotel. Additionally, Emma faces challenges with a teammate trying to take her position and hidden pets in Annie's apartment. Utilizing her cleverness and determination, Emma discovers similarities between families and soccer teams and works to resolve her problems.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

7-11

Length

128 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Emma
Annie

Discussion points

What do you think Emma learned from her experience with her Soccer Nanny?
How did Emma's relationship with her siblings and the Soccer Nanny change throughout the story?
Why do you think teamwork is important, both in soccer and in family life?
What would you have done differently if you were in Emma's shoes during her dilemmas?
How do you think the story would have changed if the Soccer Nanny wasn’t there?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation with enthusiasm and curiosity about their thoughts on the story. Use the questions to guide a deeper discussion about personal growth, teamwork, and family dynamics. Share your own thoughts and experiences related to the themes in the book to create a two-way dialogue. Compliment your child's insights and encourage them to connect the story to their own life.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Emma learns the importance of responsibility through juggling her commitments to her soccer team and her duties at home.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of their own tasks, such as completing homework on time or keeping their room tidy.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Emma and her teammates must work together to succeed in soccer, illustrating the power of cooperation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to collaborate with others in group projects at school or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Emma faces various challenges, both personal and on the soccer field, and learns to overcome them with perseverance and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle difficulties in their own lives, whether it’s solving a tough math problem or dealing with a disagreement with a friend.
Example Lesson: Honest Communication
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of open and honest communication, as Emma learns to express her feelings and needs.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to speak openly about their feelings and thoughts with family and friends, fostering better relationships.

Emma Dilemma and the Soccer Nanny by Patricia Hermes