Michelle's Garden: How the First Lady Planted Seeds of Change
on Goodreads (149)
What’s inside...
From an acclaimed author and illustrator, this tribute celebrates Former First Lady Michelle Obama and her contributions to building a healthy future for America's children. The book chronicles her journey to create the largest kitchen garden ever at the White House, despite having no prior gardening experience. With the help of local students, White House staff, and even President Barack Obama, she not only grows a garden, but also inspires a nation.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think inspired Michelle Obama to start a garden at the White House?
How can planting a garden make a difference in our community?
What are some ways we can help take care of our environment like Michelle did?
Why do you think it's important to eat fruits and vegetables that we grow ourselves?
How would you feel about starting a garden of our own?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about gardening and taking care of the environment. Listen actively to their ideas and provide positive feedback.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s everyday experiences, such as eating vegetables at dinner or spending time outdoors.
Invite your child to plan a small garden or another environmental project. Discuss what plants they would like to grow and what tools they might need.
After reading the book, explore more about Michelle Obama and other community gardens to show real-life examples of the book's themes.
Use the story as a springboard to discuss the importance of healthy eating habits and how they can positively impact personal and environmental health.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Healthy Eating
Explanation: The story demonstrates how Michelle Obama cultivated a garden in the White House to promote healthier eating habits.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in gardening at home or school to understand the value of fresh, healthy foods.
Example Lesson: Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: Through the initiative of starting a garden, the book teaches the importance of taking care of the environment.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be more environmentally conscious by engaging in activities such as recycling, conserving water, and planting trees.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Michelle's garden project was successful due to the collaborative efforts of many, including staff, volunteers, and students.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this in their daily interactions, learning to work cooperatively in group settings like school projects or sports.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Dedication
Explanation: The book highlights the challenges faced while creating the garden and how persistence was key to overcoming them.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to stay committed to their goals, whether it's finishing a difficult homework assignment or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Educating Others
Explanation: Michelle uses the garden as a tool to educate others about nutrition and the environment.
Real-World Application: Children can take initiative to share knowledge with their peers and family about what they've learned, fostering a community of learning and growth.