When Your Mum Was Little (Family Memories)
Family memories Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
Mums and dads relate childhood memories from the 1960s and 70s, illustrated with lively artwork and photographs of objects and events from that era. The book includes a timeline and suggested questions for young readers to explore growing up in the past.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-9
Length
30 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it was like for your grandparents when your mum was little?
How do you think daily life was different for your mum compared to your life now?
What are some things your mum did as a child that you would like to try?
Can you imagine what games or toys your mum liked when she was your age?
What adventures do you think your mum went on when she was little?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use the book’s illustrations to spark discussions about the similarities and differences between the child's and the mother's childhoods.
Relate personal family stories or memories that align with the scenarios presented in the book to make the connection more vivid and meaningful.
Encourage the child to ask questions about their parents' childhood to create a deeper understanding and bond.
After reading, consider creating a simple family tree together, placing emphasis on stories from each generation to enhance the child’s interest in family history.
Use a comforting and nostalgic tone when discussing the themes of the book to create a warm, engaging atmosphere.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding generational differences
Explanation: The book conveys how different life was when the child's mother was young, providing insight into past technologies, games, and family dynamics.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and respect the experiences of older generations, fostering meaningful conversations with parents and grandparents about their childhoods.
Example Lesson: Value of family memories
Explanation: Through recollections of the mother’s childhood, the book emphasizes the importance of preserving and sharing family stories.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to ask family members about their past experiences, helping to strengthen family bonds and understanding of their heritage.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: By exploring the feelings and experiences of the mother as a child, readers are guided to consider perspectives different from their own.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in developing empathy, crucial for social interactions and relationships by considering how others might feel or have felt in different situations.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: The book highlights the technological and cultural shifts from the mother's youth to present day, illustrating how change is a constant part of life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be more adaptable and open to changes they encounter in their own lives, understanding that change is natural and manageable.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for the present
Explanation: By comparing past and present scenarios, the book allows children to see advancements and positive changes over time.
Real-World Application: It encourages a sense of gratitude for current conveniences and innovations that their parents or grandparents might not have had, fostering an appreciative mindset.