More Surprising Stories Behind Everyday Stuff
#2 of 27 in National Geographic Kids Chapters Series
on Goodreads (20)
What’s inside...
The second book in this series from National Geographic Kids answers intriguing questions about the origins of everyday things. Discover who invented slime, why we use piggy banks, how Bubble Wrap was created, and the surprising backstories behind haunted houses, cheese, and golf. This book is filled with amazing facts, fun stories, and colorful visuals that provide insights into familiar foods, common clothing items, quirky beauty regimens, and more. Learn about the origins of these items and impress your friends and family with your knowledge.
Discussion points
How do you think the invention of the telephone changed the way people communicate?
What everyday item do you find most interesting, and why?
Can you think of an invention you wish existed to make life easier or more fun?
How do inventors come up with their ideas, and what drives them to create new things?
What have you learned from this book that surprised you the most?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own favorite everyday item and why it fascinates you to spark your child’s interest.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine their own inventions. Discuss what problem their invention would solve.
Relate the stories from the book to real-life scenarios to make the content more relatable and understandable for your child.
Praise your child’s responses to foster a positive discussion environment, making them feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas.
Use the illustrations and photos in the book as visual aids to help explain complex ideas and keep the discussion lively and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Lifelong Learning
Explanation: The book offers insights into everyday items, sparking curiosity about the world and inspiring children to learn about how things are made and why they function as they do.
Real-World Application: Children may be encouraged to ask more questions and seek answers in their daily experiences, fostering a lifelong love for learning and discovery.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: By uncovering the history and unexpected facts behind common objects, this book teaches children to think critically about the world around them, challenging their preconceptions and encouraging deeper analysis.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply critical thinking skills by questioning and evaluating information in school projects or when interacting with new information.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Innovation
Explanation: The stories of how everyday items came to be highlight the role of innovation and human ingenuity. Children learn about the creativity and problem-solving involved in creating new products.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to appreciate and maybe even participate in innovative processes, whether it's in their creative play, school projects, or future careers.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The book touches on items from different parts of the world and their cultural significance, teaching children about global diversity and the interconnectedness of innovation across cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value diverse cultures and perspectives, leading to a more inclusive approach when interacting with peers from different backgrounds.