Every child learns differently and sometimes they learn when they imagine themselves as a character in a book. Not all children's books have to teach a hard lesson, but teachable moments and imagination are important.
Not Scared To Grow Up Starring Fred Unafraid is a delightful introduction to Fred, who comes up with a new name to make himself feel, well, less afraid, and more brave, when he tries new things. He imagines growing up and doing stuff only bigger kids do. You can witness him grow up and take on a little more responsibility or do more activities in the 32 pages of this adorable little book. Fred's herolike name "Unafraid," which he likes to share with the young readers. Growing up doesn't have to be scary at all. It can be very fun!
Kids and imagination
When kids use their imagination, it can turn a scary feeling into one of courage and a "can do" attitude, thereby increasing self-confidence and self-esteem. This fun picture book for ages 3-7 makes a terrific bedtime story as it's short enough that when it's past the child's bedtime and they ask you to read it "just one more time x 3," it still won't be too late: ) - of course, they'll come a time when they read it by themselves using a flashlight under the covers. We hope the child in your life falls in love with Fred (and his family pet crocodile---not strange at all!)
Conquering fear, shyness and doubt in young children - a few words from Scholastics
According to Scholastics, "When your child engages in pretend (or dramatic) play, he is actively experimenting with the social and emotional roles of life. Through cooperative play, he learns how to take turns, share responsibility, and creatively problem-solve. When your child pretends to be different characters, he has the experience of "walking in someone else's shoes," which helps teach the important moral development skill of empathy. It is normal for young children to see the world from their own egocentric point of view, but through maturation and cooperative play, your child will begin to understand the feelings of others. He also builds self-esteem when he discovers he can be anything just by pretending!" [From the article "Importance of pretend play" on the Scholastic.com website].
When kids use their imagination, they can see themselves through a character. It can turn a scared feeling into one of hope and a "can do" attitude, increasing self-confidence and self-esteem. This book for ages 3-7 makes a terrific bedtime story and it's short enough that when you say "lights out" they go to sleep happy and content, or they could ask you to read it over and over (sorry!), We hope the child in your life falls in love with Fred.
