When I Was a Baby
Rigby star independent : Red level Series
What’s inside...
This picture book tells the story of a child who transitions from being a baby to being a big sibling. As a baby, the child snuggled in their blanket, but as they grow up, they pass the blanket down to their new baby sister. The book is designed for toddlers and pre-schoolers with child-friendly card, rounded corners, and small square format suitable for small hands. It captures the essence of growing up while cherishing special memories and items from babyhood.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
28 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think you were similar or different from the baby in the book when you were younger?
What do you think are the funniest parts of being a baby?
Can you imagine what activities you liked when you were a baby, based on the story?
Why do you think the baby in the book liked those specific things?
How do you feel about growing up and being able to do more things now?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone to invite open conversation. Show genuine interest in your child's responses, and relate their answers back to moments from the book to deepen connections with the story. Encourage them to imagine and express, enhancing their empathy and understanding of different life stages. Share your own stories from when they were a baby to make the discussion more relatable and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding growth and change
Explanation: The story illustrates the journey from being a baby to growing older, showcasing various stages of development.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to their own experiences of growing up, recognizing changes in themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and relatability
Explanation: By reflecting on the experiences of being a baby, children develop empathy, understanding that everyone shares similar beginnings.
Real-World Application: This can help children relate to others better, knowing that everyone has similar early life experiences, fostering a sense of unity.
Example Lesson: Memory and reflection
Explanation: The story encourages children to look back and reflect on their own memories and how they have grown.
Real-World Application: This activity can enhance cognitive development and personal reflection among children.
Example Lesson: Importance of family
Explanation: The book highlights interactions with family members, emphasizing their roles in a child’s life and development.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate their family's efforts and love, seeing how pivotal their family is in their own growth and support.
Example Lesson: Celebrating milestones
Explanation: As the book explores different stages of a child’s early years, it celebrates various developmental milestones.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to celebrate their own milestones and those of others, promoting a positive attitude towards growth and achievement.