A Day in Canada (Canada Concepts)
on Goodreads (48)
What’s inside...
This sweet picture book from popular illustrator Per-Henrik Gürth begins simply with, "It's time to wake up. What will you do today?" It then takes readers on a sunrise-to-sunset tour across Canada, showcasing all kinds of fun adventures to be had from coast to coast to coast. Each colorful spread shows a different time of day and location with a corresponding activity. For example, "7:15 a.m. Help unload fresh vegetables at the Halifax Farmers' Market." Ideas range from waking up with the sunrise in St. John's to falling asleep under the Northern Lights in Nunavut, and cover all manner of places in between, from large cities to national parks, in every province and territory. On each spread, there are two representations of what time of day it is: in the top left the time is written out in numerals (such as "6:00 a.m."), while in the lower left the time is depicted in an illustration of an analog clock.
Using vibrant, bold colors, the artwork features a variety of lovable Canadian animal characters --- familiar from Gürth's other titles --- participating in each activity, and providing delightful visual cues to the text for pre-readers. This book is a perfect fit for teaching young children how to tell time and useful for discussions about what we do at certain times of the day. A map of Canada, with markers for each location, on the endpapers makes this a fun introduction to Canadian geography as well. It is also simply an appealing, heartfelt celebration of all that is beautiful and special in Canada.
Why read this book
- Showcases diverse Canadian landscapes and culture.
- Encourage exploration and curiosity about geography.
- Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
- Supports learning national symbols and basic map skills.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the day in the book, and why?
Can you imagine living in Canada? What would be the most exciting thing to do there?
How do the seasons in Canada compare to where we live? What would you like to do in each season?
What animals from the book would you like to learn more about?
How do you think children in Canada spend their day differently or similarly to you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a world map or a globe to locate Canada with your child before you start reading, to give them a sense of the geography.
Discuss the illustrations with your child, asking them to describe what they see and how it makes them feel.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene or character from the book after reading.
Connect the story to your child’s daily routine by comparing and contrasting their day with a typical day of a child in Canada.
After reading, watch videos or look up more information about Canadian wildlife and landscapes to enrich the learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Canadian Culture and Geography
Explanation: Through vibrant illustrations and simple text, 'A Day in Canada' takes young readers on a journey across Canada, showcasing various activities and landmarks.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by showing interest in maps, asking questions about different regions, and recognizing cultural diversity within their own community.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Nature
Explanation: The book highlights the natural beauty and outdoor activities that are part of the Canadian landscape, such as kayaking and watching wildlife.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to engage in outdoor activities, learn about wildlife, and develop a respect for the environment.
Example Lesson: Concept of Time and Routine
Explanation: As the book progresses from morning to night, it introduces young readers to the concept of a day's cycle and the activities associated with different times.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of routine and time management in their daily lives, such as having specific times for meals, play, and sleep.
Example Lesson: Learning Regional Differences
Explanation: The book depicts various scenes from across Canada, teaching children about the diverse climates and cultures within the same country.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect regional differences and apply this understanding when meeting new friends from different parts of their own country or the world.