Shelter (Emergent Reader)
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
IN
Why read this book
- Explores themes of safety and belonging.
- Bright, engaging illustrations captivate young readers.
- Simple text perfect for beginner readers.
- Encourages empathy and understanding.
Age
4-8
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What kind of shelter would you like to build for your favorite animal and why?
How do different shelters protect us from weather?
Can you think of a place that feels like shelter to you?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to have a shelter?
What materials would you use to build a shelter and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to use their imagination by asking them to describe their ideal shelter.
Discuss the importance of shelters and how they keep us safe from various environmental elements.
Relate the shelters in the book to places in your child’s everyday life to make the concept more tangible.
Highlight the moral aspects of why having a shelter is vital, fostering empathy and understanding.
Ask your child to draw or build their version of a shelter with toys or craft materials to deepen their understanding through creative expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of shelter
Explanation: The book explores different types of shelters through vibrant photographs and simple text, helping children comprehend the diversity of shelters in the world.
Real-World Application: Children can start recognizing and discussing different types of homes and shelters in their own environment, fostering an early appreciation and curiosity about architecture and living spaces.
Example Lesson: Importance of a safe living environment
Explanation: By showcasing various shelters, the book subtly teaches the importance of having a safe place to live.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think about and be thankful for their own home, and raises awareness about the importance of helping those who are less fortunate.
Example Lesson: Cultural diversity
Explanation: The depiction of various shelters around the world offers a glimpse into different lifestyles and cultures.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences from a young age, enhancing their social awareness and empathy towards others.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The book includes shelters inspired by and built from natural materials, implicitly teaching about sustainable living.
Real-World Application: Children can become more conscious of the environment and the materials they see and use, promoting early environmental consciousness.
Example Lesson: Basic human needs
Explanation: Introducing the concept of shelter as a basic human need alongside food and clothing.
Real-World Application: This fundamental understanding can lead to more profound discussions with children about gratitude, needs vs. wants, and the importance of community support.