If You Were a Kid During the Civil Rights Movement (If You Were a Kid)
#3 in If You Were A Kid Series
on Goodreads (87)
What’s inside...
Follow along with two girls, Joyce Jenkins and Connie Underwood, as they navigate life in a new town and uncover secrets about a civil rights demonstration. Joyce is adjusting to attending a segregated school, while Connie is curious about her twin brothers' secretive plans. Together, they find themselves in the midst of a demonstration that highlights the fight for equality and how it transformed the nation. This story is suitable for readers ages 7-9 and explores themes of civil rights and social change.
Discussion points
What are some of the ways people in the book tried to fight for equality?
How would you feel if you were there during the Civil Rights Movement?
What do you think are some important lessons from this movement that still apply today?
How can you help ensure everyone is treated fairly and kindly?
Why do you think it's important to learn about history like the Civil Rights Movement?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use historical photographs or documentaries to provide a visual context to the stories in the book.
Share personal stories or family histories related to civil rights to connect the book's themes to your child’s world.
Encourage your child to draw or write about what they would do if they were a kid during the Civil Rights Movement.
Discuss the concept of fairness and equality in simple terms to help your child understand the significance of the movement.
Ask your child to think about what questions they would ask someone who lived during that time and why.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Equality and justice
Explanation: The book showcases the journey and challenges during the Civil Rights Movement, emphasizing the importance of equality and justice for all, regardless of race.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to treat everyone with respect and fairness, fostering a sense of justice in their interactions with peers at school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Courage and perseverance
Explanation: Characters in the story demonstrate bravery in the face of adversity while fighting for their rights, teaching children the value of standing up for what is right.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to courageously speak out against bullying or unfair treatment they witness in their surroundings, be it at school or in public places.
Example Lesson: History and awareness
Explanation: The narrative educates children about significant historical events and figures from the Civil Rights Movement, enhancing their awareness of the past.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children understand the significance of historical movements and respect diverse cultural heritages, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: By experiencing the struggles faced by individuals during the Civil Rights Movement through the story, children can develop a greater sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: This empathy can translate into more compassionate behavior towards classmates and friends who may be different from them, reducing instances of prejudice.
Example Lesson: Activism and involvement
Explanation: The book illustrates how collective action can lead to societal change, imparting the lesson of active participation.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to engage in community activities, whether in small group discussions or school projects, understanding their power to enact change.