Big Church
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Have you ever been to Big Church? It's a busy and special place, but Who it's all about is most important.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-10
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you feel when the characters were exploring the big church? Can you imagine what it would be like to be in their shoes?
Why do you think the church was important to the people in the story? What makes a place special to us?
What are some ways the characters in the book showed kindness or helped each other?
If you could add another scene to the story, what would happen in it? What would the characters do?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different building, like a library or a castle?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about and relate their own experiences to the story, making personal connections that enhance empathy and understanding.
Ask open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking rather than simple yes or no answers, fostering critical thinking and discussion.
Invite your child to imagine alternative scenarios or endings to the book, stimulating their creativity and storytelling skills.
Discuss the themes and messages behind the story, such as community, support, and the significance of places, reinforcing their comprehension and values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of community
Explanation: In 'Big Church', the protagonist experiences various community events and interactions within the church setting which highlight the support and love shared among community members.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and take part in their own communities, understanding that collective efforts and unity can lead to a supportive and nurturing environment.
Example Lesson: Respect for different beliefs
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist encounters people with diverse beliefs and practices within the church, emphasizing respectful dialogues and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the diversity in beliefs around them and promotes respect towards others' opinions and faiths in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of helping others
Explanation: The story showcases the protagonist and other characters engaging in charitable acts like organizing food drives which depict the virtue of helping those in need.
Real-World Application: Children learn about empathy and the impact of acts of kindness. They can be encouraged to participate in or initiate charitable activities in their schools or neighborhoods.
Example Lesson: Building friendships
Explanation: As the young characters in 'Big Church' make new friends at different church gatherings, the book highlights the development of meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and shared experiences.
Real-World Application: This lesson underlines the importance of friendship in personal growth and well-being, encouraging children to be open to making friends in different settings and to cherish these bonds.
Example Lesson: Personal responsibility
Explanation: The book illustrates personal responsibility through the protagonist's role in organizing a community cleanup, teaching the value of taking initiative and being accountable.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of personal contribution to community and environmental care, motivating them to take responsible actions in their daily lives.