Smart About the Presidents (Smart About History)
Smart about history Series
illustrations by
on Goodreads (77)
What’s inside...
Kids will love discovering the floor plan of the White House, a list of presidential perks, and lots of interesting info about all the presidents, from George Washington to Barack Obama. (Did you know he is the only president born in Hawaii?) Each page is jam-packed with trivia, fun facts, and information on the historical events of each presidency.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which president do you find most interesting and why?
How do the decisions of past presidents affect our lives today?
What qualities do you think make a good leader?
If you were president for a day, what would you do?
How has the role of the president changed over time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions and thoughts about each president discussed.
Relate the historical events and presidential decisions to current events to make the discussion more relevant.
Ask your child to imagine themselves in various presidential scenarios to foster critical thinking.
Create a timeline together of the presidents discussed in the book to help visualize the historical progression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Leadership Qualities
Explanation: The book highlights various presidents and their leadership styles, showcasing how different traits led to their successes and challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these ideas by exploring what makes a good leader in their own classroom or peer group activities.
Example Lesson: History and Civic Knowledge
Explanation: Through engaging stories about each president, children learn about significant historical events and the role of the presidency in shaping the nation.
Real-World Application: This nurtures a foundational understanding of their country’s history and promotes civic pride and responsibility.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The book encourages readers to analyze the decisions and actions of the presidents, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of leadership.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this analytical approach when facing decisions or understanding different viewpoints in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Achievement Through Perseverance
Explanation: Many stories in the book illustrate how presidents overcame difficulties to achieve their goals, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist in their endeavors despite challenges, whether in academics, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of Ethics and Integrity
Explanation: The book discusses the moral obligations of being a leader, emphasizing how ethical behavior shapes a president’s legacy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of honesty and integrity, applying these principles in their dealings with friends and family.