Junie B Jones Is a Graduation Girl
#17 of 28 in Junie B. Jones Series
What’s inside...
In 'Junie B. Jones Is a Graduation Girl,' Junie B. Jones, a kindergartner, is excited to graduate and tries to act grown-up by helping with the graduation. However, things do not go as planned, and she learns that making mistakes is part of growing up. On the day of the graduation, all the children, including Junie B., receive their white graduation gowns. Despite being told to keep them in their boxes, Junie B. can't resist and ends up causing an accident. Now, she must find a way to fix things before the graduation turns into a disaster.
Character compass
Junie B. Jones
Grace
Lucille
Mother
Mrs.
Discussion points
How do you think Junie B. felt during her graduation? Can you relate to her feelings?
What are some important lessons Junie B. learned throughout the school year?
If you could give Junie B. one piece of advice for her next school year, what would it be?
How do Junie B.'s friendships affect her experiences at school?
What does 'graduation' mean to you and how do you feel about moving to the next grade?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about graduation and moving up a grade, just like Junie B.
Discuss the concept of growth and learning from mistakes, highlighting Junie B.’s adventures and mishaps.
Ask your child to draw parallels between their school experiences and Junie B.’s, fostering a deeper connection to the character.
Use the book as a tool to discuss overcoming fears and anxieties about new challenges, just as Junie B. faces her graduation.
Celebrate reading by organizing a mini-graduation after finishing the book, complete with a discussion about their favorite parts and biggest lessons learned.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Junie B. takes on the important role of being the 'flower girl' at her kindergarten graduation, demonstrating the importance of fulfilling responsibilities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of small tasks at home or in school, learning that their contributions are valuable.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Disappointment
Explanation: When things don’t go as planned during the graduation rehearsal, Junie B. learns to manage her disappointment in constructive ways.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that it's okay to feel upset and that there are positive ways to deal with setbacks, such as discussing feelings with a trusted adult.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Junie B.’s unique take on the graduation ceremony showcases her creative thinking, especially when she decides how to make the event special.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination to solve problems and make everyday tasks more enjoyable.
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, Junie B. learns to work together with her teacher and classmates to prepare for the graduation ceremony.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of teamwork and how collaborating with others can lead to successful outcomes.