First Kid on Mars
What’s inside...
A thrilling adventure of a young kid selected to be the first to explore Mars, facing challenges and making new discoveries in a new world. It's just another day for the first kid on Mars when a storm strikes Cosmos Bay, and Laura's astronaut parents leave her in charge of the base. She can handle it, right? After all, it's just Laura, a pair of wild dogs, a few geckoes, and a pair of grumpy buffaloes. What could possibly go wrong?
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the first kid on Mars felt when they landed on the planet? What emotions might they have experienced?
What challenges do you think someone living on Mars would face? How would you solve them if you were there?
Can you imagine what daily life on Mars would be like? What would be different from life on Earth?
If you had the chance to send a message to the first kid on Mars, what would you say?
Why is teamwork important in space exploration, and how would you contribute if you were part of the team?
Tip: Role play these questions
Foster curiosity by asking your child to compare and contrast living conditions on Earth and Mars. Encourage them to use their imagination to visualize the Martian environment and think creatively about overcoming challenges. Reinforce the importance of teamwork by highlighting how collaboration is essential in space missions. Support their emotional understanding by discussing the feelings and emotions of being in a new, unknown place like Mars.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist faces many challenges on their journey to Mars, demonstrating perseverance and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persisting through difficulties and adapting to new situations, skills valuable in school and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The young Mars explorer collaborates with different characters to solve problems and navigate their new environment.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to work cooperatively in group settings such as school projects or team sports, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The main character's quest on Mars is driven by a quest for knowledge, showing an inquisitive and enthusiastic approach to learning.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to ask questions and seek out answers, enhancing their educational journey and encouraging lifelong learning.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Facing the unknown of space, the character shows immense bravery.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of facing fears and the rewards of stepping out of their comfort zones.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: Throughout the story, the protagonist learns about Mars's environment and the importance of sustainability.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the impact of human actions on environments and the importance of caring for our planet.