Room for the Baby
What’s inside...
In the story, a family anticipates the arrival of a new baby but faces the dilemma of not having enough space for a crib due to the mother's sewing room being full of recycled items. The mother creatively makes new clothes from old ones for the baby and inspires the neighbors to help. As they celebrate Jewish holidays from Passover to Hanukkah, the big brother assists and worries if there will be room for the baby. Eventually, the collective effort resolves the space issue.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the family felt when they had to make room for the new baby?
What are some ways we can help each other when big changes happen in our family?
Why is it important to share and give things we no longer need to others?
Can you think of a time when you had to make space for something new? How did you handle it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking them about times they’ve had to adjust to changes.
Highlight the importance of family support and teamwork when discussing the book, and relate it to your family’s dynamics.
Discuss the value of generosity and kindness, using examples from the book of the family giving items away to make room for the baby.
Use expressive reading to keep your child engaged, changing your tone to match the emotions in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: In 'Room for the Baby', the family must repurpose and recycle old objects to make space for the new baby, showcasing ingenuity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate the value of reusing materials and thinking creatively to solve problems in their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: The story centers around a family adjusting their home and lives for a new member, demonstrating flexibility and acceptance of change.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and embrace changes in their own lives, such as moving to a new place or adjusting to a new sibling.
Example Lesson: Cooperation and family bonding
Explanation: The entire family comes together to prepare the room, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of working together as a family and supporting each other through shared tasks and goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of preparation and planning
Explanation: The family's effort to organize the space for the baby underlines the importance of planning and preparing for new tasks.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to develop organizational skills and understand the importance of preparing ahead for significant events or responsibilities.
Example Lesson: Sharing and generosity
Explanation: Family members donate their old belongings to make room for the baby, displaying acts of sharing and selflessness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of sharing with others, especially with family members, and the joy that generosity can bring.