C is for The Day the Crayons Quit: Library Notes

Duncan "got a gold star for creativity." This was the final phrase and it sealed this book's destiny to be on my list. It is not one I read before even though it is well-known.  It drew me in as a funny story line that suggested it was quite imaginative.  Then having another important 'C' concept, creativity, as a part of the story of the crayons....well, that just made me doubly sure it was the one to share today!

The book, "The Day the Crayons Quit" is written by Drew Daywalt and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers.  The main character is Duncan.  He receives a stack of letters from his crayons who all have problems!  Can you imagine what problems crayons have? Well, apparently red is overworked, blue is happy but now is too short, white is empty feeling, grey is tired and peach got his wrapping peeled off and now is naked and embarrassed!  What other problems do you think crayons may have?

Duncan wanted to make his crayons happy. He got an idea.  What idea do you have?  Is it the same one Duncan had?

Even after several readings, a child will continue to learn from this book.  

Round one might be the overall story line/problem and solution.

Round two might be about the colours.  What do you use each colour for? What else would you colour with that crayon?  Can you identify the colours?  Which one is your favourite?  Would you like to colour something now?

Round three might be about the letters.  Can you read the different types of handwriting? Can you figure out why the crayon wrote to Duncan? Is the crayon happy? Maybe you can follow up and write a letter too!  Maybe write a thank you letter to your box of crayons lol!  

This book can lead to other conversations connected to it...like art classes, rainbows and favourite colours for ___(a dress, a cat, a hat, a wall).  It can be used as a way to open a conversation to talk about how the child is feeling about something.  For example, beige was proud of himself but didn't feel valued by others. Green was happy but tired of those around him arguing. How is your child feeling?  Do you think Duncan would know how to help? Can you help?

When problems are presented, we need to find a solution like Duncan does.  This book is a light hearted introduction to a discussion about problem solving.  Duncan found a good solution to make everyone happy but we don't always make the best decisions do we?.  Name a problem in your life and brainstorm some ideas on possible responses that would solve the issue.

Consider how we treat things in our life.  If your crayons could talk, what would they say to you?  What about your shoes or backpack? Your pillow or your stuffed dino? This is another good conversation starter offered by this book.

You see, the more you look at something, the more things come to light.  Books are so wonderful for children because they are not simply a story to entertain but they offer so many potential topics to expand on that will apply to the child where they are at in the moment. They can learn according to their level of understanding.  Sharing the book with the child(ren) in your life will give you opportunities to build on your relationship and on skills that will help your child grow. It is definitely an excellent use of time!