The Berenstain Bears' Trouble with Money (First Time Books(R))
Berenstain Bears First Time Chapter Books Series
on Goodreads (4,721)
What’s inside...
To earn coins for the Astro Bear video game, Brother and Sister Bear find ways to work for money. How they find the middle ground between being spendthrifts and little misers makes for a funny, realistic story. This classic Berenstain Bears story is a perfect way to teach children about the importance of being responsible with money! Come for a visit in Bear Country with this classic First Time Book from Stan and Jan Berenstain. Mama and Papa are worried that Brother and Sister seem to think money grows on trees. To make money of their own, the cubs decide to start their very own businesses, from a lemonade stand to a pet-walking service. Includes over 50 bonus stickers!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Brother Bear
Sister Bear
Mama Bear
Papa Bear
Discussion points
What do you think Brother and Sister Bear learned about money in this story?
Why is it important to save money, and how can you start saving?
Can you think of different ways the Bear family could spend or save their money wisely?
What would you do if you had a dollar? Would you spend it, save it, or donate it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by asking your child their initial thoughts about the story, ensuring a comfortable and open discussion environment.
Relate the story to your child’s everyday experiences, such as receiving an allowance or saving up for a special toy, to make the discussion more relevant.
Encourage your child to come up with their own examples of good money habits, praising their ideas to foster confidence.
Discuss the consequences of not managing money well, as shown in the book, and ask your child how they might handle similar situations differently.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the value of money
Explanation: The Berenstain Bears learn how earning and saving money is hard work, helping children grasp money management.
Real-World Application: Children can start to manage their allowances or save up for something they want, learning budgeting early on.
Example Lesson: The importance of responsibility
Explanation: Through tasks to earn money, the cubs learn the responsibilities associated with money.
Real-World Application: Kids can take on small tasks around the house to earn their pocket money, fostering a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: The consequences of financial mismanagement
Explanation: The cubs face the repercussions of spending all their money quickly.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think critically about their spending choices and the importance of saving.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: The Bear family works together to solve their money issues, highlighting the significance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children learn to collaborate with siblings or peers in group activities, understanding the value of working together towards a goal.