Tattle Tails (Barkley's School for Dogs)
#10 of 11 in Barkley'S School For Dogs Series
What’s inside...
When Harry's tattle-telling gets out of control, his friends at Barkley's School try to teach him a lesson he won't forget. Harry the Westie is tattletaling on the other dogs and getting them in trouble. Harry's behavior is getting out of hand, and soon his schoolmates are upset. Jack helps Harry learn a lesson about good and bad tattling.
Character compass
Jack
Discussion points
How do you think Barkley felt when his friends were tattling? Can you tell why?
What would you do if you were in Barkley's place at the school for dogs?
What do you think about tattling? Is it sometimes good or always bad?
Can you think of a time when you helped solve a problem among friends? What did you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Barkley’s shoes, promoting empathy and perspective-taking.
Discuss the difference between tattling and reporting serious issues, helping them understand when each is appropriate.
Highlight the importance of communication and honesty in friendships, tying them back to personal experiences your child might have had.
Use examples from the book to lead into conversation about integrity and character development.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Honesty
Explanation: In 'Tattle Tails', the characters learn the importance of being truthful under various circumstances, reflecting honesty as a key theme.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace honesty in their daily interactions, understanding that truthfulness builds trust and strengthens relationships.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story emphasizes taking responsibility for one's actions, especially when the dogs make mistakes and learn to own up to them.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children recognize the importance of personal accountability, which can be applied at home or school when they face similar situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Real-World Application: By learning to understand and share the feelings of others, children can improve their social interactions and develop more caring relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The dogs in the book face challenges that they must work together to solve, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply critical thinking and collaboration to overcome obstacles in their own lives, enhancing their decision-making abilities.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of friendship is highlighted, showing how cooperation and support can overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building and maintaining positive relationships, which are essential throughout life.