Amira's Picture Day
What’s inside...
Ramadan has come to an end, and Amira is excited to celebrate Eid at home, but she faces a dilemma as it coincides with school picture day. Torn between participating in Eid festivities and being present for her class photo, Amira feels conflicted. Throughout the celebrations at the mosque, she can't shake off the worry of missing picture day. However, a last-minute idea during the car ride home may offer a solution to her problem. This engaging story by Reem Faruqi, illustrated by Fahmida Azim, captures Amira's emotional journey.
Discussion points
How do you think Amira felt about missing her class picture day because of Eid? Can you relate to a time you missed something important?
What are some ways Amira tries to capture her Eid celebration? How do you like to remember special days?
How does Amira's family and community celebrate Eid? What similarities and differences do you see compared to how we celebrate our special holidays?
What did you learn about Eid and other traditions different from ours? Why is it important to learn about different cultures?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in our community? What would be the same or different?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, explain the significance of Eid and how it is an important celebration for Muslims around the world.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine how they would feel if they missed an important event and how they would handle the situation.
Highlight the importance of family and cultural traditions; discuss your own family traditions and compare them with Amira's.
While discussing the book, emphasize understanding and respect for different cultural practices and the value of inclusivity.
After reading, consider creating a photo scrapbook or drawing pictures together of your family's special celebrations as a fun activity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting cultural diversity
Explanation: Amira's Picture Day highlights the observance of an important Islamic holiday, Eid, and how it coincides with her school picture day. This narrative provides a window into Amira’s cultural practices and emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing interest and respect towards different cultural celebrations of their classmates, helping foster an inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of family traditions
Explanation: The story depicts Amira spending the day celebrating Eid with her family, showcasing the significance of family gatherings and traditions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to cherish and look forward to their own family traditions, understanding the special bonds such occasions strengthen.
Example Lesson: Dealing with conflicting emotions
Explanation: Amira feels torn between celebrating Eid and attending her school picture day, expressing her mixed emotions. This aspect of the book wisely navigates children through managing conflicting feelings.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that it is normal to experience mixed feelings about situations, and it is important to communicate these feelings to find supportive solutions.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Amira and her mother come up with a creative solution to make sure she can partake in both significant events, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children learn that through creative thinking and discussions, they can often find solutions to problems that allow them to enjoy all aspects of their lives.