Winter Days in the Big Woods: Adapted from the Little House Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder (My First Little House Picture Books)
My First Little House Books Series
What’s inside...
A young pioneer girl and her family spend the winter in their log cabin in the Big Woods of Wisconsin. With this illustrated adaptation from the beloved Little House series, the youngest readers can share in the joy of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved classics.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Laura Ingalls
Mary Ingalls
Caroline Ingalls
Charles Ingalls
Discussion points
How do you think Laura felt during the winter days in the big woods?
What activities did Laura and her family do together in winter?
Why is it important for Laura's family to prepare for winter?
What similarities and differences do you see between your winter experiences and Laura’s?
How do you imagine living in the big woods might be like during different seasons?
Tip: Role play these questions
To effectively engage your child in a meaningful conversation about 'Winter Days in the Big Woods,' focus on the shared family experiences portrayed in the book. Highlight the aspects of teamwork and preparation, and relate them to your child's own experiences with familial bonds and seasonal changes. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about winter activities, and compare their modern experiences with the historical setting of the book. This not only broadens understanding but also deepens personal connections to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Hard Work
Explanation: The story showcases the Ingalls family working together to prepare for the winter, highlighting tasks like preserving food and making warm clothing.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of participating in household chores and understanding the effort behind maintaining a home.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Simple Joys
Explanation: Despite the challenges of living in the woods, the Ingalls family finds happiness in simple pleasures, such as making maple syrup and playing with homemade toys.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find joy in simple, non-materialistic activities and to appreciate what they have.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Community
Explanation: The book emphasizes the strong bond within the Ingalls family and their interaction with neighbors, fostering a sense of community.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of supporting and being there for each other, and how building relationships within the community can provide mutual benefits.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Resourcefulness
Explanation: Faced with the harsh conditions of winter, the Ingalls family uses their resourcefulness to thrive, from conserving resources to creating their own entertainment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be adaptable and resourceful, finding solutions in difficult situations and using their creativity to overcome challenges.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The story illustrates a deep connection with the natural environment, showing how the family relies on the land for their livelihood and respects its cycles.
Real-World Application: Promotes an understanding of the importance of nature and encourages behaviors that respect and protect the natural world.