Topic:
Different Families
LT focus:
-Identify own family members
-Describe how families can be different
-Discuss different roles in our families
Background for teacher: none
Introduction
The lesson will begin with a reminder of circle time rules- taking turns speaking, listening to one another etc. The teacher will begin by explaining to the class that they will be talking about our families, and that every family is different. The teacher will give examples of a variety of family units e.g. single parent families, children living with grandparents, a family having two mammies/daddies etc. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of our families and that every family is different and special.
Development
The children will pass around a teddy (or any talking object) and state who is in their family. The teacher will be mindful of any difficult circumstances any child lives in and positively guide the conversation accordingly. Any child who does not want to speak should not be forced to, but can be given extra chances to contribute if he/she would like to later on.
After every child has identified his/her family members, the teacher will talk about the role the children have in the family. Examples can be given at first such as helping empty the dishwasher, helping younger siblings, being kind to siblings etc.
The class will then have the opportunity to describe what he/she does at home to help the family. The children will be praised for their listening and contributions.
Plenary
To conclude, the teacher will introduce a book about a special family- ‘And Tango Makes Three’ by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell. After reading it the teacher will recap what has been learned in the lesson- that all families are different and all families are specia
Other teacher resources for teaching this topic:
Video of book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyPjUa908hM
Alternative books that could be read:
-The Family Book by Todd Parr
-Who’s in My Family? By Robie H. Harris
-Mommy, Mama and Me by Leslea Newman