Farmhouse
What’s inside...
Two-time Caldecott Medalist Sophie Blackall invites readers to explore the dollhouse-like world of a beloved farmhouse where twelve children were born and raised. Step inside and relish in the daily life of the family that lives there, rendered in impeccable detail. Based on a real family and an actual farmhouse, this spectacular work is filled with luminous detail and joy. Join Sophie Blackall as she takes readers on an enchanting visit to a farmhouse across time, echoing with stories.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-4
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What sounds do different animals on the farm make, and why do you think they make those sounds?
How do the farm animals help the farmer, and how does the farmer help the animals?
Can you describe a day in the life of your favorite animal from the book? What do you think they do from morning until night?
What kind of farm would you like to have? What animals would you keep and why?
How do you think the weather affects life on the farm? Can you think of ways the farmer might prepare for different weather conditions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being on a farm, and ask them to describe what they see, hear, smell, and feel. This not only helps with sensory development but also enhances creativity. Use the illustrations in the book to point out different farm activities and processes, exploring the daily life and importance each element holds. Discuss the responsibilities of caring for animals and crops, connecting these to lessons on responsibility and nurturing. Relate the farm's cooperative ecosystem to the child’s environment, teaching them about teamwork and community. Finally, after reading, consider visiting a local farm to give your child a real-life experience that connects with their reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in 'Farmhouse' collaborate to solve problems and accomplish tasks around the farm.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by working together with their peers on group activities at school or during play to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story shows characters taking care of animals and crops, highlighting the need to be responsible for those dependent on us.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to take care of their belongings and help out with chores around the house, understanding that their actions have an impact on others.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Through the interactions with the farm environment, the book teaches the importance of respecting and preserving nature.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to participate in environmental conservation activities such as recycling or planting trees.
Example Lesson: The value of hard work
Explanation: Characters in the book achieve positive outcomes through dedication and hard work, teaching the value of perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to persist in their studies or hobbies, understanding that effort leads to success.
Example Lesson: The joy of simple living
Explanation: The book portrays the happiness that comes from simple activities and living close to nature, away from modern distractions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the non-materialistic aspects of life and find happiness in simple pleasures like spending time with family or playing outdoors.