Under My Hood I Have a Hat
What’s inside...
In 'Under My Hood I Have a Hat,' a children's book by Karla Kuskin, a young child describes the process of bundling up in various layers of winter clothing to stay warm. The child puts on a hat under a hood, followed by a scarf, mittens, and other winter gear, creating a rhythmic and playful narrative. The book's charming illustrations and simple, repetitive text make it an enjoyable read for young children, teaching them about dressing appropriately for cold weather while engaging them with the fun of getting ready to go outside in the winter. In a related narrative, a young girl, eager to play in the snow, finds dressing up for the cold weather quite a task as her mother layers her with two sweaters, boots, a coat, a muffler, mittens, and more, turning a simple outing into a project.
Age
2-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Narrator
Discussion points
What do you think the child in the story feels when they put on each piece of their winter clothing?
How do you prepare for a cold day? What are your favorite winter clothes?
Why do you think it's important to wear different items like a hat, scarf, and mittens in winter?
How do you think the story would change if it was a different season?
Can you describe a time when you played in the snow just like the child in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to describe their favorite winter outfit before reading the book, which builds personal connection to the story.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques, changing your tone with each clothing item the child puts on in the story to keep the session dynamic.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of themselves in their winter gear as depicted in the book to reinforce the story’s themes.
Discuss your own memories of winter and dressing up for the cold, sharing personal stories that resonate with the narrative to deepen the connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Preparation and Planning
Explanation: The story illustrates the child going through the methodical process of dressing warmly for winter, layer by layer. Each piece of clothing serves a specific purpose.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning the importance of planning and preparing for their daily activities, understanding the reasons behind each step, such as dressing appropriately for the weather to stay comfortable and healthy.
Example Lesson: Independence and Self-care
Explanation: The protagonist shows autonomy by dressing herself, choosing her own clothes and managing her comfort.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take responsibility for their personal care, fostering independence and self-confidence as they make choices about their own needs.
Example Lesson: Sequencing and Memory
Explanation: The narrative details a sequence in which the child puts on her winter attire, fostering an understanding of order and memory recall.
Real-World Application: Children learn to remember and sequence their own routines, which can help in enhancing their memory skills and ability to follow instructions.
Example Lesson: Sense of Accomplishment
Explanation: Completing the task of dressing up for the cold weather gives the child a sense of achievement and readiness.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of completing tasks independently, boosting their self-esteem and readiness to face new challenges.