A Farmer Boy Birthday: Adapted from the Little House Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder (My First Little House Picture Books)
My First Little House Books Series
on Goodreads (304)
What’s inside...
Join Almanzo in this My First Little House Book adapted from Laura Ingalls Wilder's classic Farmer Boy. It's Almanzo's birthday and he spends the day on the farm trying to train two calves and sledding.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What chores do you think Almanzo enjoyed the most on his birthday? Why do you think he liked those?
How is celebrating a birthday on a farm different from how you celebrate your birthday?
What are some ways that Almanzo's family showed love and care for each other?
If you could give Almanzo a birthday present, what would you give him and why?
Why do you think Almanzo's responsibilities on the farm were important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine living in Almanzo’s time and place, asking them how they would feel doing the chores he did. Use the book’s illustrations to point out details about life on the farm, sparking conversation about the differences and similarities to today’s world. Emphasize the values of hard work and family as depicted in the story, asking your child how they contribute to your family. Lastly, celebrate the joy of simple pleasures, as shown in Almanzo’s birthday, by discussing what makes your child feel special on their birthday.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: In 'A Farmer Boy Birthday,' young Almanzo helps with various farm chores, showcasing the importance of diligence and responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking on appropriate household chores, thereby learning the significance of contributing to their family and developing a strong work ethic.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for simpler pleasures
Explanation: Almanzo's excitement over simple birthday gifts like a yoke for his calves highlights joy in simple pleasures, a contrast to today’s material-heavy culture.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to cherish non-materialistic joys like spending time with family or enjoying nature, fostering a sense of gratitude and contentment.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical lifestyles
Explanation: The book provides a glimpse into 19th-century farm life, offering educational insights about past daily life and practices, different from the modern world.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn about history in an engaging way and can discuss with family or peers how life has changed over time, boosting their historical knowledge and perspective.
Example Lesson: Significance of family traditions
Explanation: Almanzo’s birthday traditions underscore the importance of family customs in strengthening familial bonds.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate in their own family traditions and possibly take the initiative to help create new ones, thus enhancing family unity.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through challenges
Explanation: The book shows Almanzo working hard for things he wants, like training his calves, illustrating that perseverance is key to achieving goals.
Real-World Application: Children are reminded that persistence is crucial when facing their own challenges, be it in schoolwork, sports, or personal goals.