The Moon in the Sky: Poems Your Kids Would Have Written
What’s inside...
Delight in thirteen whimsical poems that capture the simple honesty of everyday childhood activities from the perspective of three-to-six-year-olds. These poems cover various topics such as getting dressed, eating snacks, and having stinky feet, and are crafted to make you laugh, smile, and build memories with your kids.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
34 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite poem in the book? What did you like about it?
How did the poem about the moon make you feel? Did it make you think of anything special?
If you could write a poem, what would it be about? Why?
Why do you think the author chose the moon as a theme for the poems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting a discussion, read the poem aloud together with your child to set a cozy and attentive ambiance.
Show genuine interest in your child's thoughts and feelings about each poem to encourage open expression.
Relate the poems to your child’s everyday experiences to make the conversation more relatable and engaging.
Use the book’s illustrations to fuel imagination and guide the discussion towards understanding the themes and emotions conveyed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The poems in 'The Moon in the Sky' explore feelings and perspectives of various characters, both human and animal, encouraging children to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their everyday interactions at school or home by considering other people's emotions before responding in social situations.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Bruce Shutts' book inspires children to express themselves creatively through poetry, showcasing different styles and rhythms. This encourages children to see the beauty in creative expression.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to write their own poems or create stories, fostering a love for language and arts from a young age.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: Several poems highlight the beauty of nature and the importance of taking care of our environment, instilling a sense of responsibility towards the Earth.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in recycling, conserving water, or planting trees, helping them develop habits that contribute to environmental sustainability.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Through narratives of overcoming challenges and bouncing back from setbacks, the poems teach children the value of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson is applicable when children face academic challenges or personal setbacks, teaching them to persevere and continue trying despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Joy of Learning
Explanation: The poems celebrate curiosity and the joy of discovering new things, which can instill a lifelong love for learning in children.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to explore new subjects, ask questions, and engage in learning activities outside of the classroom to foster an enduring enthusiasm for knowledge.