Ira Sleeps Over
by Bernard Waber
Summary

When Ira is invited to his friend Reggie's house for a sleepover, he faces the dilemma of whether to take his teddy bear. He does not want to appear to be a baby, but his confidence is diminished as a result of his sister's teasing. He finally decides to go and leave the teddy bear at home, but changes his mind in the middle of the night. His discovery that Reggie also has a teddy bear is reassuring and further deepens their friendship.
Background Building/Vocabulary Ask if the student has ever had a blanket or teddy bear or stuffed animal that was a favorite. Talk about how these objects can provide comfort in distressing times. Discuss what it means to be homesick. Talk about what it is like when you are invited over to a friend's house for the first time.
Pillars of Character Discussion Points

Respect, Trustworthiness and Caring

* Trying new experiences can be risky, but rewarding.
* Being open and honest with a friend may lead to unexpected discoveries.
* Knowing how to comfort yourself is a positive skill.
* Feeling a sense of personal accomplishment is often the result of trying something new.
Questions for Discussion 1. What are the good things about sleeping away from home? What are the scary things?
2. What are some cures for homesickness?
3. How did Ira's family members act when he was trying to decide what to do?
4. Why do you think he finally decided to risk this?
5. Why do you think people are afraid to tell others what they fear?
Other Books About overcoming fears and having "comfort objects:"
Feiffer, Jules. I Lost My Bear. Morrow Junior Books, 1983.
Henkes, Kevin. Owen. Greenwillow, 1993.
McKee, David. Elmer and the Lost Teddy. Lothrop, Lee & Shepard, 1999.

Read Aloud Tips

Reading aloud and discussing books is of prime importance for young students as they develop literacy skills. Hearing stories helps students develop comprehension skills, critical thinking skills and understanding of themselves and others. It is also a fine opportunity to discuss the actions and decisions of characters in stories as they encounter life's problems. Students will come to you with a wide variety of lanuage skills and backgrounds experiences. Their experience will be enriched by the way you approach a book, helping them understand new concepts, setting the stage for the story and discussing aspects related to developing good character: the habits that we encourage to become thoughtful and caring citizens. It is always a better experience if you have been able to read the book ahead of time and have some ideas about what to talk about.

Set the stage by building background before reading. • Explore the illustrations. • Wonder together. • Have a good conversation. • Enjoy the story together. • Let the student take the lead. • Ask about the student's experiences and share your own. • Develop an atmosphere that is safe for sharing ideas.

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