One Moment in Time: Children around the world
on Goodreads (54)
What’s inside...
One Moment in Time is a non-fiction picture book that celebrates diversity and unity by showcasing the lives of eleven different children around the world at the same point in time. Written by travel writer Ben Lerwill with illustrations by Alette Straathof, the book takes readers on a colorful journey through various cultures, illustrating the different activities children are doing simultaneously in different countries. For example, at 7 o'clock in the morning in Mexico, Javier is eating breakfast, while at the same time in New York City, Kayla is preparing for school. It’s a lyrical celebration of diversity with a heartfelt message of unity, showing what children in different countries are each doing at the same point in time.
Age
5-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you learn about how children live in different parts of the world? Can you describe some of their daily activities?
How did you feel when you read about the challenges some children face? What are some ways we can help?
What similarities and differences did you notice between your life and the lives of the children in the book?
If you could visit one of the places mentioned in the book, where would you like to go and why?
What is one thing you would like to learn more about from the cultures you read about?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, validating their emotions. Ask open-ended questions to promote critical thinking and empathy. Compare and contrast your child’s daily routine with those depicted in the book to create a personal connection. Use a world map or globe to locate the countries mentioned to enhance geographical awareness. Suggest drawing or writing a story about a day in the life of a child from one of the countries to deepen understanding and engagement.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The book showcases diverse children from various cultures, highlighting their unique experiences and challenges.
Real-World Application: Kids reading this book can learn to appreciate and respect differences among their peers, fostering a more inclusive environment at school or in the playground.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: Each child's story includes moments of overcoming obstacles or adapting to changes, instilling a message of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these examples to their own lives, understanding that challenges can be faced and overcome with perseverance.
Example Lesson: Global Awareness
Explanation: By exploring the lives of children around the world, the book provides a window into how other cultures live, work, and play.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand their place in a global community, encouraging curiosity about the world and people beyond their immediate environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: The stories emphasize how education shapes the lives of the children, regardless of their geographical location.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value their education and see it as a universal tool that can empower them and others.