Lima Beans Would Be Illegal: Children's Ideas of a Perfect World
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
In asking children the question 'What do you think would make our world a better place?', this author has collected over a hundred charming, humorous quotes that will appeal to kids of all ages. Quotes from children stating how they would like the world to be range from 'If your bathing suit wouldn't fall off in the pool' to 'If people never had to say goodbye.'
Age
3-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
If you could create your perfect world, what would be the most important rule you would make?
How would life be different if your favorite things were always available?
Why do you think the idea of banning lima beans might seem good to some children?
Can you think of something you don't like that you wish could be illegal? Why?
What are some kind things you would do for others in your perfect world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own ideas of a perfect world to make your child feel more comfortable sharing theirs.
Encourage your child to use their imagination freely and reassure them that there’s no right or wrong answer.
Ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child’s thoughts and to help them expand their ideas.
Use examples from the book to guide the discussion and relate back to the story to reinforce understanding.
Highlight the importance of consideration and kindness in their version of a perfect world as underlying values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The book presents various scenarios from a child’s perspective, which encourages young readers to think about others' feelings and viewpoints.
Real-World Application: Children can better relate to their peers, understanding that everyone has unique thoughts and feelings, promoting a more inclusive atmosphere in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The imaginative ideas about a perfect world shared by children in the book highlight the importance of creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in problem-solving and to express their own creative ideas without inhibition, both in school projects and play.
Example Lesson: Consideration of Consequences
Explanation: This book helps children contemplate the outcomes of certain world changes suggested by their peers, fostering critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to think ahead about the consequences of their actions, aiding them in making thoughtful decisions in daily life.
Example Lesson: Valuing Different Perspectives
Explanation: By exploring a variety of ideas from children about what makes a perfect world, this book teaches the importance of diverse viewpoints.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate and respect differences in opinions, which is crucial for effective teamwork and social harmony.
Example Lesson: Active Participation in Community
Explanation: The narrative encourages children to think about how their ideas can contribute to a better society.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to become more engaged in their communities and to understand the impact of their contributions to a collective future.