If I Were President
#2 of 3 in Kids Self-Empowerment Series
What’s inside...
In the book 'If I Were President,' Sweet Bailey explores the responsibilities and challenges of being the President of the United States. Through her speech, she highlights the importance of standing up to bullies and advocating for those without a voice. This powerful story teaches children about courage, leadership, and the significance of the presidential role, making it an ideal read for kids aged 4-8 years old.
Discussion points
What would you do first if you were the president?
How would you help people in your country?
What rules would be important to have?
Who would you ask for help if you were president, and why?
What do you think is the most important quality a president should have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about a president’s job. This will set the stage for new information.
Pause at key moments to discuss the president's responsibilities depicted in the book and relate them to real-world examples.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about leadership and fairness as they relate to their own experiences, such as at school or at home.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of themselves as president and explain what they are doing in the drawing.
Revisit the book on significant days like Presidents' Day to reinforce the ideas and deepen understanding over time.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Leadership qualities
Explanation: The book portrays the protagonist exploring the roles and responsibilities of a president, which highlights crucial leadership qualities such as decision-making, responsibility, and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these leadership qualities in school projects or group activities, learning to navigate and lead discussions effectively.
Example Lesson: Importance of service to others
Explanation: The narrative focuses on the president's duty to serve and make decisions that benefit the public, teaching kids the value of public service.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in community service or simple acts of kindness at school and home, understanding the impact of their actions on others.
Example Lesson: Understanding democratic principles
Explanation: Through the exploration of presidential duties, the book introduces basic democratic principles like fairness, justice, and equality.
Real-World Application: Children can practice these principles by being fair in games, respectful of others' opinions, and understanding the importance of equality among peers.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: The story shows how the president must handle responsibilities and be accountable for decisions made, thus teaching children about accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their decisions have consequences, and they too must be responsible for their actions, whether it's in their homework or in their interactions with others.