The Giraffe Who Was Afraid of Heights (Arbordale Collection)
#5 in Earth Systems & Human Activity , Habitats, Physical & Behavioral Adaptation , Weather, Climate, & Seasons Series
What’s inside...
Modeled after The Wizard of Oz, this enchanting story describes a young giraffe who suffers from a fear of heights. On his way to the doctor, he befriends a monkey who is afraid of climbing and a hippo who is afraid of water. Together, they face and overcome their fears with courage and the support of each other. The 'For Creative Minds' section includes fun facts, animal adaptation information, and engaging activities like a 'Match the Feet' game and a mix-and-match activity. This story encourages children to overcome their fears and to help friends in trouble.
Character compass
Giraffe
Hippopotamus
Monkey
Discussion points
Why do you think the giraffe was afraid of heights?
How did the friends help each other overcome their fears?
What did you learn about facing and overcoming fears?
Can you think of a time when you were scared and someone helped you? What happened?
If you were in the story, what advice would you give the giraffe?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss the giraffe’s fears, encourage your child to open up about their own fears by sharing something you are afraid of and how you handle it.
Highlight the importance of friendship and teamwork in overcoming challenges, and relate it to your child’s experiences with their friends or classmates.
Ask your child to draw a picture of a scene where the giraffe is facing its fears, and discuss the emotions and outcomes depicted in their drawing.
Praise your child for thoughtful answers and empathize with their feelings, reinforcing that it’s okay to be scared and that they can always talk to you about their fears.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: The story demonstrates how the giraffe, along with other characters, faces and gradually overcomes its fears with the support of friends.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to face their own fears, whether it's trying new activities or making new friends, showing them that courage can lead to positive outcomes.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The animals in the story work together to overcome obstacles, highlighting the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals in group projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the characters in the book help each other with their fears, it promotes a sense of empathy and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic and supportive of their peers who may have different fears or challenges.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The story reflects how the characters do not give up despite their fears, showcasing perseverance.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in overcoming personal challenges, be it in academics, sports, or personal goals.