The Great Big Book of Families
not part of a series
on Goodreads (555)
What’s inside...
The Great Big Book of Families by Mary Hoffman, illustrated by Ros Asquith, explores the diverse nature of families through engaging text and humorous illustrations. Each spread focuses on different aspects of family life such as homes, holidays, schools, and pets, celebrating the various forms families take today. From traditional nuclear families to single parents, mixed-race families, and families with same-sex parents or disabled members, this book showcases the wide array of family dynamics and emphasizes that everyone's family is unique and special. A perfect book for children to understand and appreciate the differences and similarities in family life around the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways that families in the book are similar to or different from our own?
How do the various homes and activities of the families in the book compare to ours?
What did you learn about how other families live and celebrate?
Which family in the book would you like to visit for a day and why?
How do you think being in a different type of family might change your daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly discuss the different types of families your child might already know about.
While reading, pause at different family descriptions to explore your child’s feelings and thoughts about what they see.
After reading, ask your child to draw their family and another family from the book, discussing any similarities or differences they observe.
Encourage empathy by asking how your child might feel if they were in a different family scenario portrayed in the book.
Reinforce the message of inclusion and acceptance, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting different family dynamics.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Diversity and acceptance
Explanation: The book showcases various family structures and lifestyles, teaching that families come in all shapes and sizes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to accept and celebrate differences among their peers and in their community.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and resilience
Explanation: The book explores how families adapt to different challenges and changes, providing a model of resilience in varied circumstances.
Real-World Application: Kids learn how to adapt to changes in their own family situations, whether it be a new sibling or moving to a new town.
Example Lesson: Importance of love and support
Explanation: Through illustrations and examples, the book emphasizes that love and support are the core of family, regardless of its form.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of offering support to family members and maintaining a loving environment.
Example Lesson: Inclusivity
Explanation: The book includes a range of socio-economic, cultural, and racial backgrounds, demonstrating inclusivity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be inclusive and respectful towards people from all walks of life.