Hats off for the Fourth of July
What’s inside...
Spectators wait to see what will come next as they watch the town's Fourth of July parade. Follow this small town parade to fun, with music, cowboys on horseback, the fire engines, and when the parade is finished, a surprise spectacle in the sky.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the Fourth of July special in this story?
How do the different hats in the story represent the characters wearing them?
What was your favorite part of the parade and why?
How do you think the people in the story feel during the parade?
If you could add one thing to the Fourth of July parade in the book, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the colors, sounds, and activities depicted in the parade. This promotes observational skills and vocabulary development.
Discuss the significance of the Fourth of July. Explain why communities might celebrate together, instilling a sense of history and tradition.
Ask your child to imagine their own parade. Encourage them to think about who they would invite and what kind of hats they would wear. This spurs creativity and personal connection to the story.
Connect the story to your child's experiences by discussing any parades or festivals you have attended together. This enhances their personal connection with the book and encourages memory skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Community Involvement
Explanation: The story showcases a town coming together to celebrate the Fourth of July, highlighting how everyone plays a part in the community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of participating in local events and understand the value of community spirit.
Example Lesson: Patriotism
Explanation: The celebration of the Fourth of July itself serves as a backdrop to teach children about the significance of national pride and history.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to respect their country and learn more about national holidays and their meanings.
Example Lesson: Cultural Diversity
Explanation: The parade in the book includes various cultural representations, demonstrating the diverse makeup of American communities.
Real-World Application: Children can understand and appreciate the diverse cultures that make up their own communities and the importance of inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Sequencing
Explanation: The progression of the parade from start to finish helps children understand the concept of beginning, middle, and end.
Real-World Application: This helps in improving storytelling skills and understanding sequences in daily tasks and narratives.
Example Lesson: Joy of Shared Experiences
Explanation: The book reflects the enjoyment of community gatherings and shared experiences through the celebratory events.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of spending time with family and friends during special occasions and everyday activities.