School Classroom Ideas for
The Dragonfly Door

Nature Lessons
Teachers may use the dragonfly’s lifecycle, located at the back of the book, as part of a lesson plan on insects. The final two pages follow their development from water nymphs to dragonflies.

Journaling about Loss and Change
Teachers may read the book to their class and ask them to write an essay about losses or changes they have experienced in their lives and how it made them feel. Some teachers have reported that the story encourages children to open up in their writings and discussions.

Learning about Story Writing
Teachers may discuss story writing and the development of fictional characters using facts about nature.

Mini-Plays and Theatrical Performances
Classroom or art teachers may want to adapt the story into a mini-play as a unit which includes mask and costume making. A high school in Alabama did this and turned it into a community service project for elementary school age children, including actors and story narrators. Learn more about this mini-play.

One-on-One Help for Individual Students
Guidance Counselors may use the story as a tool for children who have suffered a significant loss in their lives. The story shows children the emotions they may be feeling through one of the characters, thus encouraging a discussion between child and counselor. Also, see tips on using the book. The tips were put together by a child psychologist.