The Barefoot Book of Children
What’s inside...
A celebration of childhood and diversity, this book features illustrations and descriptions of children from around the world, highlighting their unique experiences and the things that unite them. The lyrical exploration of humankind strikes a lovely balance between celebrating individuality while recognizing the rewards of community. Innovative and inclusive, Children of the World empowers young readers to learn about children around the globe and ponder their own place in it. Created with the guidance of diversity specialists, this groundbreaking work of narrative nonfiction addresses the need for children's books that depict diversity, while simultaneously demonstrating the interconnectedness and uniqueness of all people.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-4
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the children in the book differ from each other, and what are some things they all have in common?
Why do you think it is important to learn about children from around the world?
What are some new things you learned from this book?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did that make you feel?
What can we do to learn more about and appreciate other cultures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before beginning the book, ask your child what they know about children from other countries to gauge their current understanding.
Pause at each page to discuss the illustrations and ask your child to describe what they see and how it compares to their own daily life.
Use a globe or map to locate each country mentioned. This visual aid will help your child grasp where other children live.
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they think they would feel if they were in the same situations as the children in the book.
After reading, help your child draw a picture or write a short story about a day in the life of a child from another part of the world, using the book as inspiration.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Celebrating Diversity
Explanation: The Barefoot Book of Children explores the varied life experiences, cultures, and traditions of children around the world, highlighting the uniqueness and similarities among children.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate diversity, fostering acceptance and empathy towards people from different backgrounds in their school and community.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: By showing the everyday lives of children in different circumstances, the book helps young readers understand and empathize with situations unlike their own.
Real-World Application: Children can use this understanding to develop deeper relationships with peers who have different life experiences, and to be considerate and kind towards others.
Example Lesson: Global Awareness
Explanation: This book introduces children to global concepts and various ways of living, broadening their perspective beyond their immediate environment.
Real-World Application: It prepares children to interact knowledgeably and respectfully with people from other cultures and to be aware of global issues from a young age.
Example Lesson: The Value of Inclusion
Explanation: The book portrays a wide array of disabilities and challenges faced by children, teaching the importance of inclusion.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of including everyone despite their differences, ensuring no one feels left out in school activities or play.
Example Lesson: Self-Identity and Confidence
Explanation: By representing various cultures, abilities, and lifestyles, the book supports children in understanding and valuing their own identity and that of others.
Real-World Application: This can boost self-esteem and confidence as children see themselves reflected in the stories they read, helping them to feel valued and understood.