Literacy Lessons for Little Learners: The Power of Words with Stacey’s Extraordinary Words by Stacey Abrams

At the Early Excellence Project, we believe in the power of stories to inspire children to find their voices and use them with confidence. Stacey’s Extraordinary Words by Stacey Abrams, with illustrations by Kitt Thomas, is a heartfelt picture book that shows young readers how words can empower, encourage, and create change.

This inspiring story follows Stacey, a girl who loves words and is chosen to compete in her school’s spelling bee. Along the way, she learns that winning isn’t just about spelling correctly, it’s about using words to speak up, share ideas, and make a difference.

In this post, we’ll explore literacy lessons to help your little learner engage with the book’s themes while building essential reading and comprehension skills.

Finding Strength in Words

The book encourages children to see words not only as tools for school but also as powerful ways to express themselves and their dreams.

Start with These Questions:

• What are some of your favorite words and why?

• How do words make you feel when someone encourages you?

• Why do you think Stacey wanted to win the spelling bee?

• How can words help us when things feel hard?

These questions help children connect to Stacey’s story and think about the role words play in their own lives.

Building Vocabulary Through Word Play

Stacey’s Extraordinary Words celebrates language and is a wonderful opportunity to explore new vocabulary.

Try These Vocabulary Activities:

• Word Hunt – As you read, write down new or exciting words. Practice saying them aloud together.

• Favorite Word Jar – Start a jar at home where your child can collect their favorite words from books, conversations, or everyday life.

• Word in Action – Pick a word from the book (like extraordinary or courage) and use it in a sentence about your day.

These activities encourage curiosity about language and strengthen word recognition.

Exploring Story Themes: Confidence and Perseverance

Stacey’s story is about more than spelling—it’s about believing in yourself and using your voice.

Discussion Questions:

• How did Stacey feel before the spelling bee?

• What helped her feel brave during the competition?

• Why are words powerful?

• How can we use words to help ourselves and others?

These conversations reinforce resilience, confidence, and empathy.

Creativity Through Art: My Extraordinary Word

Art activities help children connect personally to the story’s theme of loving words.

Activity: “My Extraordinary Word” Art Project

• Provide paper, crayons, or markers.

• Ask your child to choose one word that makes them feel strong, happy, or proud.

• Have them write the word in big letters and decorate it with colors, patterns, or drawings that show what it means to them.

This activity reminds children that words carry meaning and power.

Reflection: Using Our Words for Good

The story shows children that words can build confidence and also bring kindness and change to the world.

Reflection Questions:

• What is one kind word you can share with someone today?

• How do words make people feel included or encouraged?

• Why is it important to keep learning new words?

These reflections help children understand the responsibility and joy of using words well.

Celebrating the Joy of Language

Stacey’s Extraordinary Words by Stacey Abrams is more than just a story about a spelling bee, it’s a celebration of confidence, perseverance, and the power of language. By exploring the book with your child through questions, vocabulary play, and creative activities, you’re helping them grow as readers while also learning how to use words to inspire themselves and others.

We hope these literacy lessons encourage your little learner to treasure words and use them boldly. Stay tuned for our next Literacy Lessons for Little Learners feature, and as always, happy reading!