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Tomorrow is Family Day, which makes it the perfect time to celebrate how unique and special each family is.
Nothing is more important in a young child's life than their family, and no two families are the same; some may include stepparents, two moms, or even just one parent.
Check out our favourite book picks, which highlight all different family structures, all filled with lots of love!
Book Spotlights:
The Family Book by Todd Parr
This book celebrates the love we feel for our families and all the different varieties they come in. Whether you have two moms or two dads, a big family or a small family, a clean family or a messy one, Todd Parr assures readers that no matter what kind of family you have, every family is special in its own unique way.
Clifford’s Family by Norman Bridwell
It only takes a little to BE BIG! Clifford loves his family and misses them, so Emily Elizabeth takes him to visit his mother, father, and siblings in turn! Clifford's RESPECT for his family shows through in the way he makes time to see them.
All Kinds of Families by Mary Ann Hoberman
With irresistible, rollicking rhyme, beloved picture book author Mary Ann Hoberman shows readers that families, large and small, are all around us. From celery stalks to bottle caps, buttons, and rings, the objects we group together form families, just like the ones we are a part of. And, as we grow up, our families grow, too.
A family is a family is a family by Sara O'Leary
When a teacher asks the children in her class to think about what makes their families special, the answers are all different in many ways — but the same in the one way that matters most of all.
Extension Ideas:
Start a discussion
Engaging your child in discussion is one of the best ways to help them develop their ability to think critically. After finishing a story together, try to ask them open-ended questions about it so they can build on their answers.
Why do we use open-ended questions?
Answers to open-ended questions usually contain more details, descriptions, characters, settings, locations, scenarios, emotions, and interpretation. They require more thought and help a child express their ideas and what they have learned.
What do you think of the story?
In what ways did you think the family in the story was the same as our family?
In what ways did you think the family in the story was different?
What part of the story do you think you will remember the most?
What was your favourite part of the book?
Who was your favourite character?
Can you draw a picture of your family?
Create a family tree!
HIPPY Reading Challenge starts on February 20th!
Every year, we host this challenge to encourage our HIPPY families' love of learning, and this year, we are especially appreciative of the books donated by First Book Canada and TD Bank.
Keep track of your progress, and read for 10 to 15 minutes each day. At the end of the program, you will receive a certificate of completion and an additional free book!