Keeping the City Going
What’s inside...
Brian Floca gives a thank you to the essential workers who keep their cities going during the COVID-19 quarantine. As we stay home, we observe through our windows a different view of the city we know. The usually busy streets are now nearly empty, but there are still some people out and about. These essential workers are the ones ensuring our safety, health, and the delivery of mail and food. They keep grocery stores stocked and the entire city operational.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think keeps a city running smoothly?
How do the different workers in the book help their community?
Can you imagine what our city would be like without these essential workers?
How do you feel when you see people working to keep our city safe and functioning?
What kind of help would you want to offer to keep our city going?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the roles each worker plays by asking them to describe a day in the life of one of the workers shown in the book.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and community support as depicted in the story. Highlight how every role, no matter how big or small, contributes to the city’s overall functioning.
Use real-life examples of essential workers in your community to make the book's content more relatable and to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation.
After reading, consider taking a walk around your neighborhood to spot and discuss the different workers and helpers who keep your own city going.
Emphasize empathy by asking your child how they think the workers might feel, and discuss the importance of acknowledging and appreciating their hard work.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Community Contribution
Explanation: The book showcases various individuals who contribute to city life, emphasizing the importance of different roles in keeping the city functioning.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of each person's job and can appreciate how everyone's efforts keep their community running smoothly.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and narrative, the book highlights the efforts of essential workers, fostering a sense of gratitude towards people who help maintain daily life.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to express thanks to community helpers they interact with, such as postal workers, medical staff, or teachers.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The book depicts a city continuing to function despite challenges, underscoring the theme of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to persist and adapt in the face of difficulties, whether it's dealing with changes at school or challenges at home.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness
Explanation: Brian Floca illustrates how different people and parts of the city connect and depend on each other to work harmoniously.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of teamwork and how their actions impact others within their community and beyond.