Emotion Tracking Over Time

Pause at key points in the story to identify Leo’s emotions. Create an emotion chart showing how his feelings change. Discuss what causes these emotional shifts and how Ralph supports Leo.

Quick Write or Sketch

Have students write or draw about a time when imagination or creativity helped them feel safe, brave or understood. Emphasize that sharing is optional.

Emotional Vocabulary Building

Introduce and define key emotional vocabulary such as lonely, misunderstood, comforted, anxious and belonging. Invite students to share examples or act out emotions to deepen understanding.

Cover and Title Analysis

Display the book cover and title. Ask students what they see on the cover. What is the setting? Ask students to predict who Leo and Ralph might be and how they might be connected. Encourage students to support predictions using visual evidence from the cover.

Imagination as a Tool

Discuss imagination and pretend play. Ask students why imagination can feel comforting or helpful during difficult moments. Introduce the idea that imagination can support emotional regulation and problem-solving.