First Kids (Step into Reading)
#2 of 34 in Step into reading. A step 1 book Series
What’s inside...
Kids will be kids—even when they live in the White House! Discover the stories of our presidents' children in this leveled reader perfect for President's Day! From Tad Lincoln (secretly called a 'tyrant') to the Roosevelt gang (who kept a pet badger, a rat, dogs, snakes, horses, parrots, and a one-legged chicken!) to the Kennedys (who used the oval office as a playground) to Chelsea Clinton (who transformed herself from an awkward teen into an accomplished scholar), the children featured in First Kids shared a unique experience and role in American history.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live in the White House as a child?
How do you think the children in the book felt when they had to attend major events?
What are some responsibilities you think the First Kids might have?
If you were a First Kid, what would you like to do to make a difference?
How can we compare our daily lives to the lives of the First Kids in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the scenarios presented in the book, fostering empathy and understanding.
Discuss the historical context of the book, helping your child understand the significance of the events and roles mentioned.
Ask your child to express what they found most interesting about the book and why, promoting critical thinking and personal reflection.
Relate discussions to your child’s experiences at school or in the community to make connections between their life and the First Kids’ responsibilities and experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: History Appreciation
Explanation: ‘First Kids (Step into Reading)’ introduces young readers to the lives of children who grew up in the White House, providing engaging historical contexts and personal stories.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a curiosity about history and understand the personal lives behind historical figures, fostering a deeper appreciation for the past.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The book shares the unique challenges and experiences faced by these children, helping readers to see the world from diverse perspectives.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to empathize with others who have different life experiences, which is crucial in developing social skills and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Privacy
Explanation: It highlights how growing up in the public eye can impact personal privacy, teaching readers about the values of respecting others’ personal spaces and boundaries.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by respecting privacy in their interactions with peers and learning the importance of boundaries.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The stories exhibit how these children adapted to living under scrutiny, showcasing their resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be resilient in face of their own challenges and adapt to changes with a positive attitude.