School in the Time of the Coronavirus
What’s inside...
School in the Time of the Coronavirus is a children's book that addresses the concerns and changes elementary school students, like Maria, face as they return to school during the pandemic. Maria and her mom discuss the familiar aspects of school, new safety rules, and Maria's feelings and thoughts about the transition. Authored by Emily Mazzulla, Ph.D., the book provides a relatable way for children, parents, and teachers to navigate the return to school and includes a reference for building resilience in children.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt about going to school during the coronavirus pandemic?
What are some ways the characters kept themselves and others safe?
Why is it important to follow rules like wearing masks and washing hands?
How can we support our friends and stay connected even if we can't be together physically?
What did you learn from the book that you can use in your own life during challenging times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own feelings about the pandemic, relating it to the characters' experiences.
Discuss the importance of community and teamwork as shown in the book, and how everyone plays a role in keeping each other safe.
Ask your child to think of creative ways to stay connected with friends and family, similar to the characters in the story.
Reinforce the positive messages from the book about resilience and adaptability during tough times.
Share your own thoughts and listen attentively to create an open and empathetic space for discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of change
Explanation: The story illustrates how children adapt to a new way of learning and interacting during the coronavirus pandemic.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this resilience by embracing changes in their own lives, such as moving to a new school or trying new activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of community support
Explanation: The characters in the book support each other during challenging times, showing the strength of community.
Real-World Application: Children learn to seek and offer support within their family and school community, fostering a sense of belonging and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Creativity in problem solving
Explanation: The characters find innovative ways to continue their education and maintain friendships despite physical distancing.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to come up with creative solutions when faced with personal challenges, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Adapting to new technology
Explanation: The book shows children and teachers using technology to facilitate learning and communication.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of technology in learning and everyday life, encouraging them to utilize digital tools effectively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through the characters' experiences, readers learn about the diverse impacts of the pandemic on different families.
Real-World Application: Children can develop empathy by recognizing and respecting the different challenges their peers might be facing.