Mariyah's First Day of School
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
This series of books guides children through different stages of childhood during their schooling years. The first book focuses on the early stages and the first years of school, while the second book concentrates on the middle stages and the mid-years of school. Each book includes additional resources such as 'Mariyah's First Day of School, Activity Workbook' available at www.MariyahsFirstDayofSchool.com.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-12
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Mariyah felt on her first day of school?
What are some ways Mariyah could make new friends?
Can you think of a time when you were nervous like Mariyah, and how did you handle it?
What would you do if you were in Mariyah’s shoes on your first day of school?
Why is it important to be kind and helpful to new classmates?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about starting or returning to school, relating it to Mariyah’s experiences.
Discuss the importance of friendship and ask your child how they can be a good friend like characters in the story.
Highlight Mariyah’s bravery in facing her fears and ask your child about a time they had to be brave.
Use the book as an opportunity to discuss school routines and what your child might expect on their first day.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their ideal first day of school, inspired by Mariyah’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: Mariyah faces her first day at a new school with nerves but learns to adapt by finding common interests with new classmates.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to embrace new environments or situations, using openness and curiosity as tools to overcome apprehensive feelings.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Mariyah's experience shows how making friends can ease the challenges of changing environments, highlighting the role of friendship in providing support and comfort.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to cultivate friendships by being kind and open, which can make daunting situations more manageable.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Despite her fears, Mariyah takes the brave step to engage with her peers and participate actively in class activities.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face their fears directly, knowing that being courageous in little steps can lead to positive outcomes.