Did the Sun Shine Before You Were Born?
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Did The Sun Shine Before You Were Born? is a children's book primarily designed for ages 3 to 7, focusing on family dynamics and growth. The book is written to be read aloud by a parent and supports beginning readers. It features illustrations that depict diverse family situations, aiming to cultivate a child’s understanding and acceptance of different lifestyles and cultures. The book encourages communication between parent and child by sharing values and ideas, without attempting to provide all the answers about sex and family or imposing specific attitudes.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the world was like before you were born?
How do you think the sun felt shining every day?
Can you imagine a day without the sun? What would it be like?
What do you think the sun would say if it could talk?
How do you feel when the sun shines on you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle tone to invite your child’s imagination into the discussion, making them feel safe and open to expressing their thoughts.
Show genuine interest in your child's answers, and encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts with follow-up questions.
Relate the questions back to familiar events or personal experiences to help the child connect with the book's themes.
Encourage the child to draw or create something inspired by the discussion, reinforcing their connection to the story and its themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of time
Explanation: The book explores the passage of time before the child's existence, teaching children about history and continuity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by grasping their place in the timeline, appreciating past events and how they lead up to the present.
Example Lesson: Value of curiosity
Explanation: The protagonist’s questions about the world before their time sparks a journey of discovery, showing curiosity as a driving force for learning.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to ask questions about their surroundings and seek out answers, fostering a love for learning and exploration.
Example Lesson: Importance of shared knowledge
Explanation: Through conversations with older family members and friends, the child learns about the past, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational exchange.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage with older family members, learning from their experiences and stories, which helps in building familial bonds and respect for elders.
Example Lesson: Awareness of the natural world
Explanation: Questions about the sun and nature lead to discussions about the environment and its long-term presence, teaching sustainability and respect for nature.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of caring for their environment, understanding that the natural world existed long before them and will continue to exist, reinforcing responsible environmental behaviors.