When My First Choice Isn’t Available
Reading focus
Two narratives about not being able to have a preferred activity or item. Identify each character’s first choice, why it is unavailable, their feelings, questions and next choice. Intended reading level: Year 4. Characters and settings are for adult learners.
Before reading
Introduce Thomas and Sophie. Thomas’s basketball story is on pages 1–5; Sophie’s lunch story is on pages 6–10. Read one scenario at a time if useful. Readers can discuss fictional characters without sharing personal experiences.
Words to explore
Preferred: liked or wanted more than other choices. Repair: work to fix something. Disappointed: unhappy because something hoped for did not happen. Available: able to be used or chosen. Sold out: all of an item has been sold. Ingredients: the things used to make food.
During reading
Use Talk Together to discuss what each character wanted, the explanation they heard and what they asked. Accept speech, signs, pointing, drawing or communication devices. Allow time. Readers do not need to agree with every character’s choice.
What helps
Thomas gets an honest safety explanation, asks for an update and pauses before choosing a walk. Sophie has time away from the queue and checks ingredients before choosing another sandwich. Both can still feel disappointed after choosing something else.
After reading
Retell the stories using First, Then and At the end. Compare a court closed for repairs with an item that has sold out. Who can provide more information? How does checking ingredients help Sophie? What could someone ask if the alternatives do not suit them?
Meaningful choices
These stories describe unavailable choices, not a reward or punishment system. Explain the actual reason clearly. Offer accessible alternatives that the person can reasonably use, allow time and respect communication. Where possible, include pausing, declining or asking for another option. Choosing an alternative does not prove someone has stopped feeling upset.
Accurate information
Only give a reopening date or promise a future item when confirmed. Find out who can provide an update. Do not say a favourite choice will be available next time just to end a difficult conversation.
Practical notes
Stay outside repair barriers and follow school safety arrangements. Check food ingredients, allergies and dietary or sensory needs using the cafe’s reliable information and the person’s usual support plan. Sophie’s sandwich choice is her preference, not a recommendation for every reader. If no suitable food is available, help find an appropriate option rather than pressuring the person to eat an unsuitable one.
Comprehension and activities
Each story has its own comprehension questions. Choose a scenario for picture sequencing, or discuss how the characters ask for help.
Activities →About this edition
Original I Read Smart story, 2026. © 2026 I Read Smart. All rights reserved.
Contact