This is an adorable story about a boy who is going to a sleepover for the first time and is unsure whether or not to bring his beloved stuffed bear. It is the perfect story to read to a child who is nervous about going into a new and unfamiliar situation. Through this story, children learn that they ar not along. Growing up all of us go through similar situations.
Title: Ira Sleeps Over
Author/Illustrator: Bernard Waber
Publication Year: 1975
Age Group: Kindergarten, Early Elementary
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Comments: I wish I had had this book the time my daughter was supposed to go to her first sleepover. She was very young (maybe 5) and was super excited to go until she got to the front door. At that moment, mini backpack in hand, she realized she didn’t want to spend the night after all.
Many children experience this pull between wanting to grow and have new experiencing and not wanting to leave the comfort of their familiar world. Books like Ira Sleeps Over gives kids word to go with their unnamed emotions. They help the child realize that this is part of the growing process.
When Ira realizes that his friend sleeps with a stuffed animal as well, he goes home to get his bear. This sends kids the message that it’s okay to hold on to parts of their childhood as they grow. There is no shame in holding onto the past while moving into the future.
Recommended By:
- 100 Best Books for Children
- The Read-Aloud Handbook
- What to Read When
- The New York Times Parent’s Guide to the Best Books for Children
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Michelle has a PhD in Engineering from Stanford University and a Bachelor's Degree from the California Institute of Technology. 
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