Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Find a comfortable reading area and invite the child to sit with you. Show the child the cover of The whale who ate plastic and ask questions like, ‘What do you think this story is about?’ and ‘Have you ever seen plastic in the ocean?’
Step 2 (optional)Ask the child if they have any toy animals that live in or around the water. Explain that animals which live in the sea are called marine animals. Encourage them to gather any toy marine animals they have and invite the toys to ‘listen’ to the story with the child.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Read The whale who ate plastic aloud, using expressive voices and pointing to the illustrations to keep the child engaged.
Step 2As you read the book, discuss the concept of water pollution using simple language appropriate for the child’s age. Pause to explain that pollution makes water dirty and can make animals and plants sick. Use examples from the book to discuss how plastic pollution specifically affects marine life. Ask questions such as, ‘Why is it bad for animals to eat plastic?’
Step 3After discussing plastic pollution, talk about how plastic in the ocean can harm animals and plants. Encourage the child to imagine being a fish or a turtle encountering plastic. Discuss why it’s important for us to take care of the ocean and keep it clean for sea creatures.
Step 4Finish reading the book and explore solutions to reduce plastic pollution. Explain that scientists are working on ways to create packaging that can break down naturally without harming animals or plants. Use examples like biodegradable cups and straws to illustrate how these innovations protect wildlife and their habitats.
Step 5Ask the child, ‘What do you think the author is trying to teach us?’ Encourage them to reflect on how the author’s message inspires children to make a difference in protecting our environment.
Showcase
Make
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections.
Compile photos, drawings and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what has been learned and enjoyed.
Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Discuss
Choose an object or aspect of the activity to present to the rest of the family, explaining its significance and what the child has learned.
Choose a thought-provoking question or topic related to the activity and hold a family debate or discussion to explore different perspectives.
Sit down together to discuss the activity, allowing each family member to share their thoughts, discoveries and questions.
Have each family member prepare a short presentation about what they have learned, using visuals like drawings or props to illustrate key points.
Write
If the activity involved a visit to a museum or community centre, write thank-you notes to any instructors or organisers, reflecting on what has been learned.
Collaborate on writing a fictional story or play inspired by the themes or concepts explored during the activity.
Reflect on what has been learned during the activity and write letters to be opened at a later date, sharing thoughts, goals and aspirations.
If the activity involved outdoor exploration, begin a nature journal to document future outdoor adventures and observations.
Plan
Brainstorm some basic recipes that involve the use of cutting tools e.g. cookies, pastries or pizza. Decide on a suitable recipe you can make with the help of the child and discuss which cutting tools you will need to help you make it.
Use the author’s message to inspire the child to think about how they could reduce pollution and make a positive impact on the environment. You might like to come up with some family goals like recycling plastics, reducing waste or spending time picking up rubbish from the beach or other parts of the local environment.
If the activity involved a specific topic or field of study, reach out to experts or professionals for interviews or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding.
If you enjoyed the activity, why not share it with other families within your community? Plan a workshop or invite a friend over to re-create the experience and share your new knowledge.