On Friday, students from early learners to 5th grade enjoyed a performance by The Little Theatre right in our very own music room. The performance was a musical for children based on the book series, Frog and Toad. We listened to a few read-alouds to prepare ourselves for what we might see. Some students made incredible text-to-self connections!

A Year With Frog and Toad is a delightful children’s musical based on the beloved books by Arnold Lobel. The story follows two best friends, Frog and Toad, through the four seasons of a year. Frog is cheerful and easygoing, while Toad is more cautious and grumpy, but together they share a warm and caring friendship. Through a series of short, charming scenes and songs, the play shows how they help each other rake leaves, go swimming, bake cookies, fly kites, and celebrate the holidays. Along the way, they learn about kindness, patience, and what it means to be a true friend.

Viewing theater performances is a valuable experience for first graders because it brings stories to life in an exciting, memorable way. Watching live actors helps children understand characters, emotions, and storytelling while sparking imagination and creativity.

Theater also builds social and emotional skills as students learn to be respectful audience members, listen carefully, and connect with others’ feelings. Plus, seeing a play gives children a shared experience to discuss afterward, helping them deepen comprehension and grow as confident thinkers and communicators. I believe some of these first grade students would make wonderful performers! We feel so fortunate that The Little Theatre visits our school once a year.