Welcome Home
What’s inside...
The book 'Welcome Home' is a heartwarming story that explores the themes of family, belonging, and the meaning of home. The narrative follows the journey of a child who discovers the importance of these concepts through various experiences and interactions. Meanwhile, another picture book, 'Looking for the Perfect Pet,' tells the story of Mr. and Mrs. Gargleson-Bittle as they search for the ideal pet to fill their quiet life. They welcome a variety of animals into their home, from a snail to an elephant and an aardvark, discovering the joy of companionship and learning that there is always room for one more. The narrative is poetic and lushly illustrated, emphasizing the theme of making room for everyone.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt when they found their new home?
What does 'home' mean to you?
Can you describe a time when you helped someone feel welcome?
Why is it important to have a place where you feel safe and loved?
What would you do to make someone new in your neighborhood feel at home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about 'home' by relating to their own experiences.
Ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child's responses, fostering a richer understanding of empathy and belonging.
Create a welcoming atmosphere during the discussion, perhaps by reading together in a cozy, familiar space to emphasize the theme of 'home'.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of community and supporting one another.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: The story illustrates how the main character adapts to a new environment, showcasing resilience and openness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to see changes, like moving to a new school or home, as opportunities for growth and making new friends.
Example Lesson: Value of Family
Explanation: Through the depiction of strong family bonds, the book emphasizes the support and love that family provides.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and rely on their family members during times of change or challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of Kindness
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate acts of kindness, which play a crucial role in making the new environment welcoming.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to practice kindness in their daily interactions and understand its impact on others.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: The protagonist uses creative expression to adjust to their new surroundings, highlighting creativity as a coping mechanism.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to use art or creative outlets to express their feelings and thoughts.