The Great Santa Surprise
#1 of 7 in Lift-the-flap Book Series
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
It's Christmas Eve, and Santa is delivering presents to the last children on his list, but before he has a chance to leave, the children arrive and Santa has to hide! Young readers can guess what each present is and then find Santa. It's Christmas eve and Santa is here with presents for everyone. What can they be? Children will delight in lifting the flaps to `open' each gift and find out what surprise is waiting inside each colorfully wrapped package.
Discussion points
What do you think makes Santa feel surprised in the story?
How do you think the characters show kindness to each other?
What would you do if you met Santa like the characters in the book?
How do you think Santa feels about giving gifts?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show interest in your child's responses and encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts.
Relate the story to your child's experiences by asking if they've ever felt surprised like Santa.
Discuss the importance of kindness and generosity, themes central to the story, reinforcing these values.
Use expressions and voice modulation to make the storytelling session more engaging and dynamic.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The spirit of giving
Explanation: In 'The Great Santa Surprise', the characters learn the joy of giving and not just receiving gifts. The protagonist helps Santa deliver presents, learning that giving can be as rewarding as receiving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in gift-giving during holidays or helping out their peers and family members, fostering a generous spirit.
Example Lesson: Understanding diverse traditions
Explanation: The book showcases different holiday traditions around the world. Through their journey, characters experience a variety of customs, expanding their cultural horizon.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences in their community, promoting inclusivity and understanding.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The protagonist collaborates with Santa and other characters to successfully deliver presents. This highlights the importance of working together to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be mirrored in children's everyday interactions, encouraging them to cooperate in group activities or team sports.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the story, characters encounter challenges that require creative problem-solving to continue their journey.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply creative thinking to overcome obstacles in school projects or in resolving everyday disputes with peers.
Example Lesson: The joy of surprise and mystery
Explanation: The book engages with the element of surprise, showing how unexpected moments can bring happiness and excitement.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to embrace and find joy in surprising elements of everyday life, keeping their curiosity and enthusiasm alive.