The City Kittens and the Old House Cat
on Goodreads (28)
What’s inside...
This children's book, an award-winning tale by Mrs. D, is set around Christmas time and follows the story of Nyda, an old cat who has settled into a calm life with her family. The peace is disrupted when the family's daughter brings home two playful kittens, Mickey and Jack. Initially, Nyda is unhappy and protective of her belongings, grumbling about the new additions. However, after hearing a heartfelt story about the kittens' past, Nyda's perspective changes, leading her to accept the new members of her family. The story teaches lessons about acceptance and understanding, making it a perfect Christmas read for children aged 5-10.
Age
5-10
Length
38 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Nyda felt when she first met the city kittens?
What changes did you notice in Nyda's behavior throughout the story and why do you think they happened?
Can you think of a time when you met someone new and how you felt?
What does this story teach us about kindness and helping others?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in a different location, like a farm or a forest?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters' actions, fostering empathy and emotional awareness.
Discuss the concept of change and new experiences, relating them to the child’s personal experiences to deepen their connection with the story.
Highlight themes of empathy, kindness, and acceptance. Ask your child how they can apply these themes in their own life.
Use the differences and similarities between the city kittens and Nyda to discuss diversity and the value of unique experiences.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different settings for the story to encourage creative thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: In the story, the Old House Cat learns to accept the new kittens despite initial resistance, demonstrating the value of embracing change.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be open to new experiences and people, which will aid them in adapting to new schools, communities, or family changes.
Example Lesson: Importance of Empathy
Explanation: The Old House Cat's journey from skepticism to empathy for the City Kittens illustrates the emotional transition, showcasing the importance of understanding others' feelings.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the emotions of their peers and foster kindness and cooperation in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The City Kittens, despite being in a new and initially unwelcoming environment, remain playful and optimistic, conveying resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain a positive outlook and resilience in the face of challenges such as moving to a new place or starting at a new school.
Example Lesson: Value of Sharing
Explanation: As the story progresses, the Old House Cat learns to share her space and her owner’s affection with the kittens, highlighting the importance of sharing.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of sharing their time, space, and possessions with siblings and friends, leading to better social relationships and less conflict.
Example Lesson: Family Bonds
Explanation: The bond that eventually forms between the Old House Cat and the City Kittens exemplifies the development of familial relationships, even among non-blood relations.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and appreciate the different forms that family can take, including adopted family members or new step-siblings.