The Family Book
The Family Book By Todd Parr
Category: Kiddie Rider
Summary:
This is the perfect book to introduce your child to the idea that there are many different types of families in our great, big world and that it is wonderful! You can explain to your child that sometimes people make assumptions about certain family types, but it is very important to understand that these assumptions and prejudgments can lead to misunderstandings and sometimes even hate.
The helpful introduction from the book is a great way to explain to your child that different families can be celebrated: Todd Parr’s website.
“There are so many different types of families, and THE FAMILY BOOK celebrates them all in a funny, silly, and reassuring way. Todd Parr includes adopted families, step-families, one-parent families, and families with two parents of the same sex, as well as the traditional nuclear family. His quirky humor and bright, childlike illustrations will make children feel good about their families. Parents and teachers can use this book to encourage children to talk about their families and the different kinds of families that exist.”
Plus / discussion points:
While going through the pages with your child, think of real examples of families that fit the description and point them out so your child has a clear example from their lives. (ex: “Oh this fish family has different scale colors! That’s a bit like Noah and Lia’s family!”) End with positive impressions such as: “They look happy swimming together, right?”
Inside of The Family Book
There may be times your child asks an innocent question about a friend’s family or perhaps another family in your own extended family. That’s a great time to remind them of “The Family Book”. For example, “Where is Luna’s papa?”. “Remember the family book we read together? What examples did the book show us?” and wait for your child’s answer. Guide your child through the process of realizing different families are normal and even a wonderful thing, until they can easily answer “There are so many different kinds of family in the world and that is neat!”
