Life at Home
Then and now Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Books in this series offer a window into life in the past, showing things have changed over time. In 'Life at Home,' children learn what home life was like in the past, and compare this with home life today. Books include primary sources as well as photographs of contemporary home environments.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-6
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the day described in the book, and why?
How did the characters solve problems they faced at home? Can you think of a time you solved a problem similarly?
What chores do the characters do at home? Which chores do you think you could help with at our home?
How do the family members show love and care for each other in the story? How do we show love in our family?
If you could add one event or activity to a day in your life, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, discuss the title 'Life at Home' and ask what your child thinks it might be about. As you go through the book, pause at important moments to ask your child how they think a character feels, or what they would do in a similar situation. After reading, relate the story to your child's everyday life by comparing their routine with the characters'. Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings about the book. Finally, use the themes of the book to initiate a 'family project' that mirrors an activity from the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Bonding
Explanation: Through the story's depiction of a family spending time together at home, 'Life at Home' emphasizes the significance of family togetherness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in family activities such as game nights or shared meals, fostering stronger familial connections.
Example Lesson: Value of Routine
Explanation: The book highlights daily routines that the family follows, underscoring the importance of structure in a child's life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to develop and maintain their own routines, such as setting specific times for homework and bedtime, which can increase their sense of security and improve focus.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Cooperation
Explanation: Characters in the book frequently share chores and responsibilities, showcasing the benefits of cooperation within a household.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice sharing tasks with siblings or classmates, leading to improved social skills and a better understanding of teamwork.
Example Lesson: Respect for Personal Space
Explanation: The story illustrates moments where family members respect each other’s personal space, teaching boundaries.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and respect others' need for privacy and personal space in both home and school environments.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Play
Explanation: ‘Life at Home’ shows the family engaging in creative play, highlighting how imagination enhances learning and enjoyment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to participate in creative activities, such as arts and crafts or imaginative play, boosting their cognitive development and problem-solving skills.