Kristy and the Baby Parade
#45 of 131 in The Baby-Sitters Club Series
on Goodreads (1,476)
What’s inside...
The story revolves around Kristy who organizes a parade for all the babies in her neighborhood. She encounters challenges and learns the value of teamwork, friendship, and creative problem-solving. The hit series is back, to charm and inspire another generation of baby-sitters! The Baby-sitters just love little babies. So of course Kristy has the great idea of entering a float in the Stoneybrook Baby Parade. All the girls have to do is round up a bunch of adorable babies like Squirt and Emily Michelle, dress them in costumes, and plop them on a float. Easy, right? Wrong. The float looks like a big orange blob, the costumes are hideous, and the babies won't stop crying! S. O. S.--the Baby-sitters' float is about to sink!
Character compass
Kristy Thomas
Stacey Mcgill
Claudia Kishi
Mary Anne Spier
Dawn Schafer
Mallory Pike
Jessi Ramsey
Discussion points
How did Kristy feel about organizing the Baby Parade? What would you do if you were in her shoes?
Why do you think teamwork was important in the story? Can you think of a time you worked as a team?
What did you learn about handling responsibilities from Kristy’s experience?
How do the different characters in the book show their unique personalities? Who is your favorite and why?
What would your own Baby Parade look like? What kind of decorations or themes would you choose?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story’s events, focusing on Kristy’s leadership and teamwork skills. Ask them to draw parallels between their lives and Kristy's responsibilities. Facilitate a fun activity like planning a mini 'parade' at home to bring the book’s themes to life. Share your own experiences related to the book’s themes to deepen the connection and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout 'Kristy and the Baby Parade', Kristy takes on the responsibility of organizing a parade for children and babies. This depicts her commitment to managing roles and overseeing tasks efficiently.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be accountable and responsible for small tasks at home or in school, mirroring Kristy's organizational skills in organizing events or activities.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Kristy collaborates with others to make the parade a success. This highlights the importance of working together and respecting each other's roles.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson in collaborative school projects or in sports, learning to value each team member's contribution for overall success.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The book showcases Kristy's creative approach to solving problems and creating an engaging parade. Her ability to come up with creative solutions is central to the story.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace creativity in their own playtime or in solving everyday problems, using imagination to enhance their experiences and the experiences of others around them.
Example Lesson: Coping with Challenges
Explanation: Kristy faces several challenges in planning the parade but remains determined and resourceful. This teaches children the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stay determined through personal challenges, whether in completing schoolwork or in interpersonal relationships.