Good friends Bear and Goose navigate a shift in group dynamics as Fox joins them to play. The spare text and expressive pastels make for a compelling group or duo read-aloud. Lots to discuss about interpersonal communication, differences, boundaries, compromise, inclusion... and the joy of playing together!

-songs & rhymes: "Silly hat song" (picking up the theme of playing dress-up)
-book talks:
-literacy asides:

In "A Splendid Friend Indeed", Goose and Bear had to overcome a few personal obstacles in order to become friends. Now little Fox has lots for reasons for only wanting to play with Goose, but not Bear. However when Fox gets a little sample of how it feels to be left out, he realizes it's much more preferable if everyone is included, and curls up in Bear's lap to share a book. Offers a simple message in a sweet and very digestible package that everyone can appreciate.

What About Bear is about the friendship of a bear and a duck and a new friend. Bear and duck play together, but the little fox wants to play with them. Bear and duck let the fox play. The fox wants to play hopscotch, but bear is too big and becomes frustrated. While duck is concerned, fox doesn't care much. Fox then wants to play checkers with duck, which makes bear grumpy. Fox then decides to play binoculars with duck and bear begins to leave. Duck runs after bear and has him come back. Duck exclaims that bear is his friend and that if fox would like he could be their new friend. Fox says that he wants to play with them and they all play jump rope together.

Minimal text, Polar Bear and Goose are playing nicely when Fox comes along. He wants to play, too. Can they find a game they can all play together, nicely?! ( )

age 3-5, Pierce College Library