Quiet Time with My Seeya
on Goodreads (168)
What’s inside...
A lush and endearing picture book about the special days a child spends with her Sinhalese grandfather, her Seeya, despite their language barrier. Sometimes, the moments that Sona spends with her seeya are quiet. They speak different languages and don't always use words. But they do communicate in other ways. Sometimes, they're loud. They play dress-up, stomp in puddles, and pretend to be puppies. They cook pittu, tease each other when they're messy, and read to each other, even though they might not understand what the other is saying. Any time that Sona and Seeya share is special, whether quiet or loud, because they get to spend it together. Dinalie Dabarera's debut picture book is an achingly tender meditation on the unconditional love that can transcend all languages.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when spending quiet time with Seeya? Can you describe a time you felt that way?
What are some of your favorite quiet activities that you would enjoy doing with a grandparent or a loved one?
Why do you think it's important to have quiet time? How does it make you feel?
Can you think of other ways you can spend quiet time together with family members?
What did you learn from the story that you would like to try during your own quiet time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize pauses after reading a page to ask your child how they interpret the feelings of the characters, enhancing their empathy and understanding.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between their life and the story, deepening their personal connection with the book.
Discuss the importance of quiet time in your own family dynamics, sharing personal stories or traditions to make the reading experience more relatable.
Use expressive reading to convey the tranquil mood of the book, helping your child to grasp the serene and peaceful themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family bonds
Explanation: The story illustrates strong family relationships through the interactions between the child and their grandfather, showcasing mutual respect and love.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture relationships with their family members, fostering a supportive and loving family environment.
Example Lesson: The value of storytelling
Explanation: The grandfather uses storytelling as a tool to teach lessons and pass down cultural knowledge, engaging the child's imagination and curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to listen to stories from older generations, enhancing their understanding of their heritage and improving their listening skills.
Example Lesson: Appreciating quiet moments
Explanation: The book highlights the significance of quiet, reflective time spent together, away from the distractions of daily life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to find value in peaceful activities such as reading, thinking, or spending quiet time in nature, fostering mindfulness and concentration.