Belonging Street
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
I'm going to make this city green, a deep, shining green, right here where I lie. I'll make this city green. Look out for the tree that saved a town; dip your toe in the Milky Way; sing the City Seed Song; play in Kitty Cat Street - and then come home to Belonging Street. Poems about nature and protecting our planet mingle with puzzle poems, riddles, family life and belonging, in this magical and warm-hearted new collection from an acclaimed poet and performer in schools and at festivals across the UK.
Age
7-9
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What does 'belonging' mean to you, and how do you feel when you’re in a place where you belong?
Can you relate to any of the characters in 'Belonging Street'? How would you act if you were in their situations?
What are some ways you can make others feel like they belong?
Which part of the story did you find the most interesting or surprising, and why?
How do you think the community in the book changes by the end, and what lessons can we learn from it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about belonging and community. Use examples from the book to highlight these themes. Ask your child to draw or write about a place where they feel they belong, using specific examples from 'Belonging Street' to inspire their creativity. Connect the story to real-life situations by discussing current events or family experiences that mirror the themes of community and inclusion. Always listen actively, showing interest and validating your child’s feelings and ideas.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Inclusivity and Diversity
Explanation: Belonging Street highlights the importance of respecting and celebrating differences among people in a community through the diverse characters and their interactions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate various cultures and backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and friendship with peers from different ethnic and social backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: The book encourages taking care of our surroundings by portraying characters who actively participate in community clean-ups and planting gardens.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to engage in eco-friendly activities such as recycling, conserving water, and planting trees in their own neighborhoods.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: Mandy Coe uses poetry and vivid illustrations to express emotions and ideas, showing children how art can be a powerful means of self-expression.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to explore various forms of art like drawing, writing, or performing to express their thoughts and feelings.
Example Lesson: Courage to Make a Difference
Explanation: Characters in Belonging Street take initiatives to bring positive changes to their community, demonstrating bravery and leadership.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take on leadership roles in school projects or community services, learning to make positive impacts even from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community
Explanation: The book portrays a strong sense of community and how every member, regardless of age, can contribute positively.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the value of participating in community activities, helping them to develop a sense of belonging and responsibility towards their community.