Helloo Forest Families!
Teacher Charlie here. Below is the text of “The Velveteen Rabbit,” and myself reading the story. My intent was mostly to read a longer story that I liked, so that I could offer the sound of my voice regardless of whether kids want to listen to the narration itself. I know some old poets who enjoy reading their stuff out loud while the others nap. They say the dreams make the poems better.
This is a story, though, that includes a child’s illness and recovery from scarlet fever. This is one element that could bring up some big feelings, or maybe just questions, and I want to affirm that not every story is for every one at every time. Stories have lives that way. As I was thinking about developmentally responsive storytelling, I thought of something that Teacher Laura wrote regarding pretend play and big feelings:
“Offering ways for children to tap into feelings through play themes can act as a release by giving children permission to express feelings…I want to add that children’s pretend play can occasionally be challenging for us as adults, especially if kids are acting out events or situations that are also stressful for us. It may be helpful to notice where our triggers are, and avoid a play scenario that hits too close to home. For example, a child might have questions about illness, but it may not be helpful right now to “play hospital” if that’s upsetting to adults or siblings in the family.”
This wisdom bears repeating not only around play but also around songs, stories, conversations.
Please forgive the weekendness of this letter. It’s been quite a wild ride lately and really challenging for my loved ones and me. I know we aren’t the only ones. The kindness of others has kept us safe and sound, in the way that only such kindness can. As always, I send my love. One step at a time.
Now for The Velveteen Rabbit: