In Leo the Late Bloomer, Leo is
behind his friends in reading,
writing, drawing, eating neatly
and speaking. When Leo’s
father becomes concerned,
Leo’s mother explains that Leo
is simply a late bloomer. Later,
in his own good time, Leo
“blooms”, pleasing his patient
parents and, of course, himself.
This is a good book to use to
help children understand that
everyone does things at their
own pace, and that’s alright.

Discussion questions:

1. How do you think Leo felt
   about not being able to do
   the things his friends could do?
2. How do you think Leo’s parents felt at the beginning of the story?
3. How did Leo learn to draw, write and speak?
4. How do you think Leo and his family felt at the end of the story?

Activities:

1. Whole group: Ask the class to think of things that they were unable to
   do when little, but can do now – skipping, reading, writing, riding a bike,
   etc. Make a list of those skills they are most proud of. Have children
   draw pictures to illustrate the list. Display the list and illustrations in
   the classroom.
2. How would you like to celebrate when you learn a new skill?
3. How could you show someone – a friend, brother or sister – how proud
   you are of them?