Tip-Top Tappin' Mom! #31 (Katie Kazoo, Switcheroo)
#31 of 35 in Katie Kazoo, Switcheroo Series
What’s inside...
It's Mother's Day, and Katie surprises her mom with tap dancing lessons. Mrs. Carew is thrilled and practices constantly. However, when a magical wind transforms Katie into her mom just before an important audition, Katie panics, ruining her mom's chance to shine. The story leaves us wondering if Mrs. Carew will ever dance again.
Character compass
Katie Carew
Mrs. Carew (Katie'S Mom)
Discussion points
What do you think made Katie's mom decide to start tap dancing? How did it make Katie feel?
If you could switch places with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
How do the characters in the book show support for each other’s interests and hobbies?
What would you do if you were in Katie's shoes when the magic wind switched her with someone else?
What did Katie learn about her mom and her own assumptions by the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the characters’ feelings, emphasizing empathy and understanding.
Discuss the concept of trying new things and stepping out of one’s comfort zone, relating it to personal experiences.
Ask your child how they might support a friend or family member in pursuing a new hobby, drawing parallels to the book’s themes.
Encourage your child to think about and discuss the book's resolution and what they might have done differently in a similar situation.
Use examples from the book to talk about misunderstandings and assumptions, and how communication can help resolve them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: In the story, Katie learns to understand her mom's feelings and challenges when she magically switches places with her. This helps her see life from her mother's perspective.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by considering the feelings and viewpoints of others in their daily interactions, leading to more compassionate relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Katie faces various predicaments while in her mom's shoes and must creatively solve problems to manage both her school life and her mom's responsibilities.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges, enhancing decision-making skills in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Through experiencing her mother's duties, Katie learns the importance of responsibility and the effort needed to manage tasks effectively.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take their duties seriously, whether it’s homework or chores, understanding that their contributions are important to their family’s well-being.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Katie encounters setbacks as she tries to balance her life and her mom's responsibilities but learns to adapt and persevere.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that setbacks are part of life, teaching them to remain resilient and persistent despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Family appreciation
Explanation: Seeing the world through her mom's eyes fosters a deeper appreciation in Katie for all that her family does for her.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to express gratitude and appreciation towards family members, recognizing their efforts and expressing love and thanks more often.