About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling frustrated or disappointed after missing an opportunity, like a signup deadline or a special event. This short, humorous story clearly illustrates the meaning of the idiom 'that ship has sailed' through a relatable school-day scenario. It follows a character who misses out on something they wanted, feels the sting of disappointment, and then learns to move on and find a new possibility. For children ages 6 to 9 who are beginning to understand figurative language, it's an excellent tool for turning a moment of sadness into a valuable lesson about resilience, acceptance, and the richness of language.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The core topic is mild disappointment. The book addresses this feeling directly but gently, without any significant emotional distress. The resolution is positive and straightforward, focusing on the character's ability to bounce back.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a literal-minded 6 to 8-year-old who gets stuck on figurative language. It's also ideal for a child who struggles with inflexibility or becomes very upset when plans change or an opportunity is lost. It speaks directly to the child who needs help moving past the 'it's not fair' stage of disappointment.
Parent Prep
No preparation is necessary. The book is a self-contained lesson that can be read cold. Its purpose is clear and it provides a perfect, low-stakes platform for discussing disappointment and figurative language. A parent has just heard their child say, "I can't go to the party because we were too late to RSVP!" or "Everyone got to join the soccer team but me because it's full!" This book is a direct response to that specific kind of missed-opportunity frustration.
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