GRANDMA'S HANDS
What’s inside...
A story about a Grandmother and her Grandson. The story tells how Sonny grows up and His Grandmother is always there to support and guide him throughout his life. Then Sonny grows up and eventually becomes a Grandfather himself.
Age
8-12
Length
33 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Grandma feels when she spends time with her grandchildren?
What are some special skills or knowledge that Grandma teaches her grandchildren?
Can you think of a favorite memory you have with your own grandparents or an older adult in your life?
Why is it important to listen to stories from older generations?
How can we show appreciation for the wisdom and care our grandparents offer us?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate personal family stories that echo the themes, creating a bridge between the book and your child’s experiences.
Encourage your child to ask their grandparents or elderly family members about their childhood; it can make the themes in the book more relatable and impactful.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to convey the emotions in the story, helping your child connect with the characters and their experiences.
After reading, consider creating a family tree together, discussing each member's unique contributions to the family's history, similar to how Grandma shares in the book.
Prompt your child to think about what skills or knowledge they would like to learn from their grandparents, enhancing their connection with the book and with their grandparents.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family bonds
Explanation: The story illustrates the loving relationship between a grandmother and her grandchild, showcasing moments of learning, sharing, and caring.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of maintaining close relationships with family members, which can provide emotional support and strengthen family ties.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of heritage and traditions
Explanation: Grandma passes down stories and traditions to her grandchild, teaching them about their cultural heritage and family history.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to discover and respect their own heritage and the traditions of others, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
Example Lesson: The virtue of kindness and compassion
Explanation: Through Grandma's actions and teachings, the grandchild learns the importance of being kind and compassionate towards others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these values in everyday interactions, promoting a kinder, more empathetic society.
Example Lesson: Learning through storytelling
Explanation: Grandma uses stories to impart important life lessons, engaging the grandchild's imagination and moral understanding.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to listen to and share stories as a way of learning, understanding the world around them, and developing their moral compass.
Example Lesson: Respecting and caring for the elderly
Explanation: The grandchild shows love, respect, and care for Grandma, highlighting the importance of intergenerational respect and care.
Real-World Application: Children learn to respect, appreciate, and care for older family members or community members, recognizing the wisdom and experiences they can share.