The Baby-Sitters Club Series
Stacey and the Cheerleaders
on Goodreads (1,022)
What’s inside...
The book features Stacey McGill, a member of the Baby-Sitters Club, who has been given the opportunity to become a cheerleader. The story revolves around Stacey's struggles with her diabetes as she tries to balance her health, babysitting responsibilities, schoolwork, and cheerleading practices.
Age
7-10
Length
141 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Discussion points
How did Stacey's experience with the cheerleaders change her feelings about friendship and teamwork?
What qualities do you think make someone a good team member, based on the story?
How would you have handled the challenges Stacey faced with the cheerleaders?
Why do you think it's important for Stacey to try to understand her teammates, even when it's tough?
What did you learn about resolving conflicts from Stacey's interactions with others in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about their personal experiences with teamwork and relate it to Stacey’s experiences.
Ask your child to consider how Stacey's feelings and actions evolved throughout the story, prompting them to think about how they might react in similar situations.
Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how understanding different perspectives can help resolve conflicts, just like in Stacey's story.
Use examples from the book to discuss the value of perseverance and courage when faced with new or challenging situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Stacey and the Cheerleaders showcases the importance of working together as a team. Throughout the book, characters collaborate to achieve common goals during cheerleading practices and competitions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities or sports where teamwork is essential, learning to cooperate and value each team member's contributions.
Example Lesson: Dealing with peer pressure
Explanation: The story navigates through challenges Stacey faces when encountering peer pressure from fellow cheerleaders. It explores how she maintains her integrity and personal values.
Real-World Application: This lesson is applicable in situations where children might feel pressured to conform. It encourages them to stand firm in their beliefs and make decisions that reflect their true selves.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and resilience
Explanation: Throughout the book, Stacey adapts to the new dynamics and challenges of being part of a cheerleading squad. Her journey is a testament to developing resilience in the face of new trials.
Real-World Application: Children learn that being adaptable and resilient are key qualities in overcoming any difficulties they might face in school or other social settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of passion and commitment
Explanation: As Stacey dedicates herself to cheerleading, readers see the positive outcomes of her passion and commitment, impacting both her performance and interpersonal relationships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to dedicate themselves to their interests and hobbies, teaching them that commitment can lead to rewarding experiences and personal growth.