Out and About: A First Book of Poems
on Goodreads (238)
What’s inside...
This charming collection of poems takes young readers through the seasons of the year, celebrating the wonders of nature and outdoor adventures. From splashing in puddles to picking blackberries, Shirley Hughes' lyrical verses capture the simple joys of childhood.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you notice about the different places the characters visited in the poems? Which place would you like to visit and why?
How do the illustrations make you feel? Can you point out your favorite picture and describe what you like about it?
Which poem did you enjoy the most and what do you think it was about?
How do you think the characters felt during their adventures? Can you think of a time when you felt the same way?
If you could add a poem to the book, what would it be about? Let’s think of some fun rhymes together!
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book. Listen actively and validate their feelings.
Use the illustrations in the book as a visual aid to deepen the discussion. Ask your child to describe what they see and create stories from the images.
Relate the poems to your child’s personal experiences. This connection can make the themes more meaningful and engaging for them.
Be expressive when discussing the poems. Use different voices or facial expressions to make the discussion lively and entertaining.
End your reading session by planning a similar adventure or activity inspired by the book. This can make the experience more memorable and enjoyable for your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Exploring the world with curiosity
Explanation: The book demonstrates the lesson through its vivid poems that bring everyday scenes to life, encouraging children to look closely and curiously at the world around them.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging more with their environment, asking questions, and exploring different settings whether it's a park, the seaside, or their own backyard.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: The poems celebrate the beauty and details of the natural world, from changing seasons to the wonders of animals encountered outdoors.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value and respect nature. They can participate in outdoor activities, help in gardens, or learn about local wildlife, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the environment.
Example Lesson: Joy in everyday moments
Explanation: Through the relatable and simple pleasures found in each poem, the book highlights the happiness that can be found in everyday experiences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to find joy in small things, such as playing in the rain or enjoying a walk with a loved one. This promotes a positive outlook and mindfulness from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: Many poems include themes of family and community activities that show the value of spending time with loved ones and engaging in community events.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of connectivity and being part of a community, showing them how to cherish time with family and participate in community gatherings or projects.