#5 in Stink Series
Stink and the Freaky Frog Freakout
What’s inside...
Stink Moody, the smallest kid in 2nd grade, is visiting the local pond with his friends when he gets 'bitten' by a radioactive frog. Soon, he starts experiencing some strange symptoms like a newfound ability to leap frog lily pads and a tongue that's good at catching flies - is he turning into a frog?
Character compass
Discussion points
Why do you think Stink was so interested in frogs in this story?
How did Stink’s friends react to his frog transformation and why do you think they reacted that way?
What lesson do you think Stink learned by the end of the book about nature and animals?
How would you feel if you were in Stink's shoes, and what would you do differently?
What do you think is the most important thing to protect in nature, and how can we help?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they liked best about the book to get them excited about the discussion.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Stink’s situation, which deepens empathy and understanding of the character's actions and feelings.
Discuss the idea of transformation shown in the book, not just physically like Stink, but also changes in attitudes towards nature and animals.
Connect the themes of the book to your child's real-life experiences, such as times they have encountered animals or faced unexpected changes.
Use the book’s environmental message to plan a fun educational activity, like a visit to a local pond or park to observe amphibians and other wildlife.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards the environment
Explanation: Stink learns about the importance of preserving local ecosystems and protecting wildlife, particularly amphibians, after observing changes in frog behaviors and habitats.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in local clean-up projects, recycle, and learn more about how their actions affect their immediate environment.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity and learning
Explanation: The main character, Stink, uses scientific methods to observe and document the changes in the frogs he finds, showcasing the value of curiosity and methodical research.
Real-World Application: Kids are motivated to explore nature, ask questions, and conduct simple experiments to understand the world around them better.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion for animals
Explanation: Through the story, Stink develops a deep care for the frogs and their well-being, which reflects the broader theme of empathy towards animals.
Real-World Application: This can lead to children becoming more considerate and kind towards animals, understanding their needs and feelings, and promoting humane treatment.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: The protagonist faces the challenge of identifying the cause of the frogs' unusual behaviors and works through potential solutions.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of tackling problems step by step and thinking critically to find solutions.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: Stink collaborates with his friends and family to help the frogs, showing that working together can achieve greater results.
Real-World Application: This lesson underlines the value of collaboration and seeking help when needed, skills important both at school and in interpersonal relationships.