What kids learn:

How to use time wisely

Patience

The benefits of planning

Need a role model for your child—someone who abides by the rules, knows right from wrong, is responsible and polite, and shows kindness to others? Search no further than page 8 of the May 2017 issue for Goofus and Gallant, a regular feature.

Goofus and Gallant rarely disappoint—kids can count on Goofus to mess up and Gallant to ace each situation. The hot topics this month: making good use of time and waiting patiently, and taking time to plan and use good judgment. The prompts that follow can help you start a discussion with your child.

Recap 1: Who did what:

Goofus reacts poorly when dropped off at karate practice early. Gallant reads a book while his dad chats with someone.

Conversation Starters:

1. Why is it sometimes hard to wait patiently? When was the last time you had to wait, say, for your bus to arrive or your carpool to swing by? What did you do to occupy your time?

2. What do you like to do when you’re alone, or waiting, to keep yourself entertained?

3. What are some reasons Goofus’s mom may have had to drop Goofus off early?

4. What do we mean when we say, “Lost time is never found again”?

Recap 2: Who did what:

Goofus tries to carry too much at one time and spills everything! Gallant carries only what he can manage and goes back for the rest.

Conversation Starters:

1. Goofus carried way too many items that were bound to topple or spill. Which items should he have carried one at a time?

2. Were the items in Goofus’s arms too heavy to carry or too hard to balance?

3. Have you ever carried too many things at once and dropped some of them? What fell? What did you do differently the next time?

4. How did Gallant make the task easier for himself? In what way was it harder?