Your Special Name
What’s inside...
This children's picture book was inspired by Amanda's three angels Billy Mac, Samuel and Stella Grace. Your Special Name encourages kids of all ages to embrace the history and excitement in their name and respect and connect with the potential meaning of others names. With expressive illustrations and bits of humor it will be a book loved ones will always remember. If you enjoy classic and cherished books by Shel Silverstein or Margaret Wise Brown then you will love this book.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think your name is special? How does it make you feel?
Which character in the book did you relate to the most? Why?
What are some ways you can show your friends that their names are special too?
How would you choose a name for a new pet or a toy, and why?
Can you think of a story about your own name or a friend's name?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to talk about their feelings towards their own name, emphasizing the uniqueness and story behind it.
Discuss the story's characters and their names, asking your child why they think those names were chosen, to deepen comprehension.
After reading, help your child create a drawing or craft that represents their name, using themes or lessons from the book.
Connect the book’s themes to real-life by sharing stories about how you or other family members got their names.
Create a positive reading environment by being patient and attentive, validating your child's feelings and thoughts as they express them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of identity and self-worth
Explanation: In 'Your Special Name,' the protagonist goes on a journey to discover the story behind their own name, learning to appreciate its uniqueness and significance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their own names and stories, enhancing their self-esteem and encouraging them to embrace their individuality in social settings.
Example Lesson: Respect for cultural diversity
Explanation: The book features various characters from different cultural backgrounds, each with their own unique names and stories, fostering a sense of respect and curiosity.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to interact respectfully with peers from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and understanding in their community interactions.
Example Lesson: The significance of family and heritage
Explanation: As the character learns about how their name is connected to family and ancestors, it underscores the importance of family ties and history.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own heritage, fostering a deeper family bond and a stronger sense of where they come from.
Example Lesson: Empathy through storytelling
Explanation: Hearing the stories behind the names of others, the protagonist develops empathy and a broader worldview.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps build empathetic skills in children as they learn to listen and appreciate the experiences and traditions of others.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of one's individual story
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes that everyone's name and story is special, encouraging the protagonist to see the beauty in their own narrative.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing their unique qualities and experiences, fostering a positive self-image and a readiness to share their own story with others.