My class is learning all about families right now, and I wanted to share some of the activities we are exploring. This book is one of my favorites for exploring families, and this year, as I teach over zoom, it is especially well suited for reading over zoom. This family-themed circle time activity is one of my favorites and it helps to show children how unique every family is while working on counting. Many of these activities work well in class, but some are perfect for at-home during remote learning too. Simple enough for any family to do on any budget. Have fun exploring these preschool activities for The Family Book by Todd Parr.
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The Book
The Family Book by Todd Parr is a book that gives its readers a broad definition of family; it doesn’t say that your family has to look a certain way or be the same as your neighbors. As a teacher, I really appreciate the matter of fact way it embraced diversity. It mentions some families having two moms or two dads in the same vein as all the other similarities and differences like living in a house vs. an apartment or having a large or small family. Kids see that families are not all like theirs, and it’s important to validate the truth while recognizing that while families may not all look alike, all families are made with love. Great book, fantastic illustrations, and children love it.
The Family Book Circle Time Lesson for School or Zoom
This circle time lesson for The Family Book combines counting, learning about how each family is unique, and of course, Todd Parr’s excellent book.
Preschool Activities About Families for School & Home
Family Portrait – I love this simple family portrait craft because no matter how old your child or students are, they can participate.
Telling Stories With Family Photos
Shape House – this shape lesson and art project is a beautiful way to talk about homes and families.
Family Photo Quilt – This is awesome in a classroom when students can see each other’s families on the finished quilt.
Self-Portraits can be very useful when learning about families. Who are you in your family? Students can make themselves or a family member.
Paper Hug – Now more than ever, making a hug to send to someone you love is a must.
Family Name Hunt – this is perfect for a remote school. It’s an easy activity to send home for students to do at home, and my students loved it.
House numbers ( FREE printable) – This math activity asks children to count the homes on the card and then clip the correct digit.
My family origami house – older students can help fold this paper house, but you can have them prepped for younger preschoolers. I love this project and think it’s a great way to talk about families with your students.
Family Themed Fingerplays are perfect for circle time in person or over zoom.
More Family Activities For Preschool
A version of this circle time activity and lesson plan can be found in our Families Thematic Mini-Unit. Check it and all the preschool thematic units we have for sale here.
Aida Calle says
I love these ideas!