Fun and Learning with Chrysanthemum

Looking for a story that is both heartwarming and full of learning opportunities? Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes is a perfect choice! This touching story follows Chrysanthemum, a little mouse who loves her unique name—until she starts school and faces teasing from classmates.

Whether you’re teaching at home, in an ESL classroom, or in a primary school, this story has something for everyone. Here’s why it’s such a great pick, and some ideas to bring it to life for your students.

About the Author

Kevin Henkes is an acclaimed American author and illustrator, best known for his relatable stories about young children and animals. His books often explore themes like identity, self-esteem, and friendship, making them ideal for social-emotional learning. With charming illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, Henkes’ work captures children’s imaginations while providing meaningful teaching opportunities.

Give these activities a try and see how much fun storytime can be!

Why We Love Chrysanthemum

1. Engaging Storyline – Chrysanthemum’s experiences with teasing and self-discovery are relatable for young learners. Children will connect with her emotions and root for her as the story unfolds.

2. Social-Emotional Learning – The story naturally encourages discussions about kindness, empathy, self-confidence, and respecting differences.

3. Rich Vocabulary – From names and school-related words to descriptive adjectives, this story introduces practical vocabulary children can use in daily conversations.

4. Problem-Solving and Reflection – Following Chrysanthemum’s journey helps children think critically about social interactions, problem-solving, and resilience.

Activities for the Classroom or Home

1. Name Pride Activity
   Have students write their names and share a fun fact or special meaning behind them. This builds self-esteem and connects personally with Chrysanthemum’s story.

2. Vocabulary Fun
   Highlight key words from the story such as “tease,” “unique,” “special,” and “friends.” Students can act out scenarios, match words to pictures, or use them in sentences.

3. Role-Play and Puppets
   Create simple Chrysanthemum and classmate puppets. Students can act out the story or come up with their own scenarios, practicing speaking, empathy, and storytelling.

4. Story Sequencing
   Use picture cards to have students put events in order. This encourages comprehension, sequencing, and discussion about cause-and-effect relationships in social situations.

5. Writing Prompts
   Ask children: What would you do if you were Chrysanthemum? How would you help someone being teased? This encourages personal expression, problem-solving, and writing skills.

6. Art and Reflection
   Invite students to draw their favorite scene or create a “friendship mural” highlighting kindness and empathy. This reinforces social-emotional lessons and allows for creative expression.

Bring the story to life in your classroom or at home—your students will love it!

Printable and Extension Activities

1. Cozy Reading Corner
   Set up a comfortable reading area with cushions, blankets, and soft lighting. Invite children to share stories about their own names or experiences at school.

2. Sequencing Worksheets
   Provide worksheets with key events from the story. Students can cut, paste, or color the steps to practice comprehension and fine motor skills.

3. Name Celebration Activity
   Encourage students to decorate their names with colors, patterns, or drawings that reflect their personality. This connects the story to a hands-on art activity.

4. Mindful Friendship Moment
   Discuss what it feels like to be teased or to help a friend. Encourage students to share kind words or compliments with peers, fostering empathy and self-awareness.

5. Creative Story Extensions
   Invite students to write or illustrate a “what happens next” story, imagining new adventures for Chrysanthemum and her friends.

Use these ideas in your next lesson and see the difference in engagement!

Storytime Videos

Enhance your storytelling sessions with these engaging read-aloud videos:

• Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes – Read Aloud – A lively and expressive reading of the classic tale.

• Chrysanthemum – Animated Story Book – An animated version that brings the story to life with vibrant visuals.

These videos are excellent resources for ESL learners, homeschoolers, and classroom teachers to make the story more interactive and engaging.

Bringing the Story to Life

Chrysanthemum is more than a story about a little mouse—it’s a way to teach kindness, empathy, and confidence while building literacy skills. Students learn new vocabulary, practice sequencing, explore social-emotional skills, and express themselves creatively.

Whether you’re a homeschooler, ESL teacher, primary teacher, or librarian, this story is perfect for storytime, guided reading, or interactive classroom lessons.

So grab a copy of Chrysanthemum, gather your students (or little ones at home), and enjoy a reading adventure full of learning, laughter, and heartwarming moments!