When you ask a kindergartener about summer vacation, they usually know all the fun things they want to do… like eat ice cream, see family, go to the park, sleep in and of course there’s NO SCHOOL. But, have they ever heard of a Goldfish on Vacation?

Goldfish on Vacation by Sally Lloyd-Jones and Leo Espinosa (illustrator) is an exciting story that was inspired by a real NYC Summer event that took place from 1992-2005. This picture book and read aloud activity will make a great addition to your countdown to summer break as kindergarten kiddos learn what *some* goldfish do on break.

Story Synopsis: 
It’s summer in the city, and for three siblings and their goldfish it seems pretty… normal. Until one day, they notice a sign hanging from the old, trash-filled fountain across the street. Eager to find out what’s happening, the trio mosey over and learn the fountain is seeking goldfish for the summer. As the days pass, the trio’s excitement grows as the fountain is cleaned and prepped for “vacation” day. When it finally arrives, families from the community come together to fill the fountain – turning that old fountain into the new meeting spot of the summer! 

Personal Comments:
A perfect read for summer! Goldfish on vacation is truly a unique picture book, and I absolutely love the illustrations! In the text, Lloyd was able to cleverly work in little history of the fountain by having Grandpa share old stories. In the illustrations, Espinosa really helped bring those flashbacks to life and give a great visual by representing them in black and white.  

Themes: Summer, Family, Traditions 

Discussion Ideas:

• How did cleaning up Hamilton fountain change H, Em and O’s neighborhood? 
• What does it mean to go on Vacation? What vacation did the goldfish take?
• The goldfish event was a summer tradition even Grandpa participated as a kid. Do you and your family have any summer traditions?
• What do you do you enjoy doing on summer break?
• If you have a pet like O, H and Em… where would you take it for a vacation?

Amazon affiliate link*

Let’s RETELL and Craft!

After reading, make a fun chart or use a pocket chart to sequence the provided cards! This activity is great for a whole group or small groups to have the kiddos chatting about the retell while sequencing the events hands-on.

Craft time! Yall know that I’m all about crafts in the classroom. This goldfish can either be a premade print out or a 1 page that kiddos can assemble and sequence the events independently. 

Since this book takes place during summer vacation, your kiddos can reflect about summer ideas/favorites using one of these reflection pages. * Grab this corresponding retell and craft resource by clicking here *

For more Summer inspired Retell Activities, Check out:
*this one is included in the bundle*