Over in the Meadow
on Goodreads (1,913)
What’s inside...
This excerpt from 'Over in the Meadow' highlights the polite nature of bluebirds in contrast to the rough demeanor of Jim Crow. Published by Forgotten Books, this book is a reproduction of an important historical work using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format while repairing imperfections in the aged copy. Some imperfections are intentionally left to maintain the historical integrity of the work. The book also features a lush meadow bustling with activity from turtles digging to fish swimming, and bluebirds singing, all the way to fireflies shining at night. Keats's collage-style illustrations perfectly complement this classic Appalachian counting rhyme, which is also a popular song for toddlers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the animals in the meadow feel about their home?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of the meadow?
Can you imagine what it would be like to live in the meadow like the animals?
What is your favorite part of the meadow and why?
How do the numbers in the book help us learn about the animals?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the setting and characters using their own words, promoting creative thinking.
Prompt your child to count along with the animals to enhance their numeracy skills in an engaging context.
Ask your child to express what they would do if they were one of the animals, fostering empathy and imagination.
Discuss the repetitive and rhythmic nature of the text to reinforce language skills and memory.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Counting and Numeracy Skills
Explanation: The rhythmic and cumulative nature of the text in 'Over in the Meadow' encourages children to count along with the animals featured in the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these counting skills in their daily activities, such as counting toys, steps, or even snacks.
Example Lesson: Natural Habitats and Animal Behavior
Explanation: Each stanza of the book introduces a different animal and their natural habitat, providing insights into how various creatures interact with their environment.
Real-World Application: This understanding can foster a child's appreciation and respect for nature during outdoor activities or visits to a zoo.
Example Lesson: Importance of Parent-Child Bonds
Explanation: The story showcases nurturing interactions between animal parents and their offspring, emphasizing the role of care and teaching in development.
Real-World Application: Children can recognize and value the nurturing they receive from their parents and caregivers, reinforcing family bonds.
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: Animals in the book are often shown following the instructions given by their parents, which results in positive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of listening to and following guidance from parents and teachers to achieve success in tasks or play.
Example Lesson: Rhyme and Rhythm in Language
Explanation: The poetic structure of 'Over in the Meadow' makes use of rhyme and rhythm, which can aid in phonetic awareness and early reading skills.
Real-World Application: Engaging with rhyming words and rhythmic patterns can enhance a child’s ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.