The Mitten book is even better the second time around

In my opinion, “The Mitten” book is a must read every winter. There are different versions so you will want to pick the version you think your kids will enjoy the most.

One of the reasons the Mitten Book is a must read is not only because it is a classic folk tale but also because it is a great story the second time around. 

 

The Second Time Around

The second time around can mean lots of things. It can mean simply reading the book a second time (which The Mitten is a great book to read more than once). 

OR

The second time around can happen by inviting the children to get involved and retell the story. They can retell the story with puppets, a felt board, or in this case, a fun story-telling game.

How to play this story-telling game…

Make a large mitten shape on the floor with painter’s tape. After reading The Mitten book, read the book again only this time, assign each child to be an animal that was in the book. If you need extra animals so every child can join in, then just make up a few extra animals. As you come the part where an animal goes inside the mitten, invite one of your students to go inside your large floor mitten. 

Keep adding more and more “animals” until every child gets to be inside the mitten. Along the way, use as much language from the actual story book that you can use to draw the connection between the storybook and the story game. 

Once all your children are all cozy and warm inside the mitten, be sure no one “sneezes” or the animals will go flying out everywhere!

Now I realize that I am writing this post right in the middle (or hopefully towards the end) of Covid 19 restrictions which may be an issue for you. If so, then go back to one of the other ways I mentioned above to retell the mitten story.

Or gather up play animals and invite each child to add their own animal to the mitten.

OR make a mitten shape on the floor for each of your students and keep them all six feet apart.

My main point is: don’t get stuck on what you can’t do. Look for the possibilities and do what you can do. There is always a way to make an idea work and to keep the learning fun for your children. 

Get the Mitten Book on Amazon!

Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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