Having Fun
Then and now Series
What’s inside...
Books in this series offer a window into life in the past, showing how things have changed over time. In 'Having Fun,' children learn how people had fun in the past, and compare this to how we like to have fun today. Books include primary sources as well as photographs of contemporary games and activities.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-6
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the story and why?
How did the characters show they were having fun?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to any of the characters?
What would you do differently if you were in the story?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in a different place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, validating their responses to foster a deeper understanding.
Ask follow-up questions to their responses, promoting critical thinking and connection to personal experiences.
Discuss the emotions and actions of characters to teach empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Use the illustrations in the book to help the child visualize and connect more deeply with the story.
Connect themes from the book to real-life events or activities that your child enjoys, making the conversation relevant and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of sharing
Explanation: In the story, the main character learns the importance of sharing toys with friends, which leads to more enjoyable playtime and strengthened friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their belongings with peers at school or siblings at home, fostering cooperation and harmony.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters from diverse backgrounds come together for various games, highlighting how differences can enrich group experiences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate diversity and practice inclusivity in their interactions, promoting a supportive social environment.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: When conflicts arise in the story, characters work together to find solutions, demonstrating effective problem-solving techniques.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar strategies to resolve disputes and overcome challenges at school or in the playground, boosting their critical thinking and conflict resolution skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of outdoor play
Explanation: The book emphasizes engaging in outdoor activities, which contributes to physical health and creativity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to participate in outdoor activities, reducing screen time and promoting physical well-being.
Example Lesson: Joy of learning new skills
Explanation: Characters in the book explore new games and hobbies, finding joy and self-esteem in learning.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to try new activities, whether academic or extracurricular, enhancing their learning experiences and personal growth.