At the Nursery
What’s inside...
The story follows a group of children who spend their days at a nursery, exploring the world around them through play, learning, and interactions with each other. As they navigate the complexities of friendship and the wonders of the natural world, they learn valuable life lessons that help them grow. Additionally, this series of board books was specially designed in black and white for toddlers, based on the theory of Maria Montessori. The world-famous Italian educator noted how babies first distinguish, and enjoy, high contrast images, providing visual stimulation for newborns and ideal for baby's developing brain. The series includes over 64 different exercises for the visual sensitive period, and the slide-and-pull tabs offer another way to interact with the books, making it a visually appealing and unique collection.
Age
0-3
Length
12 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the day at the nursery, and why?
How did the characters in the book feel when they were at the nursery? Can you show me those feelings on your face?
What do you think you would do if you were at the nursery like the characters? Would you play the same games or different ones?
Can you think of a time when you felt like one of the characters in the book? What happened?
If you could add one more activity to their nursery day in the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you pose each question, give your child time to think and encourage them to elaborate on their answers. This helps deepen their understanding and connection to the story.
While discussing the book, relate the scenarios to your child’s personal experiences in their nursery or playgroup to make the conversation more relatable.
Encourage your child to express the emotions of the characters by mimicking them. This helps in emotional identification and empathy.
To keep the conversation interactive, ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite nursery activity mentioned in the book or one they wish to do.
Use affirmative phrases like 'That’s a great thought!' or 'I love how you thought about that!' to encourage and affirm your child’s responses and ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: In 'At the Nursery,' children are depicted engaging in activities where they share toys and supplies with their peers, demonstrating the value of sharing.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their belongings with siblings and friends during playtime, fostering better relationships and understanding of communal living.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: The book portrays a diverse group of children interacting and learning from each other, highlighting respect for different backgrounds and cultures.
Real-World Application: This promotes tolerance and acceptance in children, encouraging them to embrace diversity in their classrooms and neighborhoods.
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: Through various activities at the nursery, children in the book are shown following instructions from their teachers, illustrating the importance of listening and adhering to guidelines.
Real-World Application: Children can implement this in their daily routines, enhancing their ability to function in structured settings like schools and public places.
Example Lesson: Importance of Routine
Explanation: The story follows a day at the nursery with a clear routine, showing children the benefits of a structured day.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the need for a routine, aiding in better time management and preparation for school.
Example Lesson: Expressing Feelings
Explanation: The characters express various emotions throughout their day at the nursery, teaching readers to articulate their feelings.
Real-World Application: Children learn to communicate their emotions effectively with family and friends, leading to healthier emotional development.