Children Like Us: A Book About Diversity

Ready for an adventure? Let's dive into "Children Like Us: Homes Around The World" and explore the incredible variety of homes that kids live in across the globe. This lesson is not just about houses; it's about fostering an understanding and appreciation of cultures, lifestyles, and the unique ways families create their cosy corners of the world.

First stop: Japan! Picture a traditional Japanese home with its sliding paper doors, tatami mats, and futons. Engage the children by asking them to imagine sleeping on a futon instead of a bed. How would that feel? Perhaps they can even try a mini Japanese tea ceremony during snack time. Fun and educational!

Next, we whisk away to Kenya, where many families live in mud huts called manyattas. These homes have thatched roofs and walls made from a mix of mud, sticks, and cow dung. A craft project could involve making mini manyattas using clay and natural materials. It's a hands-on way to understand construction methods that are eco-friendly and traditional.

Finally, let's hop over to the floating homes of the Uros people on Lake Titicaca, Peru. These homes are built on islands made from reeds. Kids can explore the concept of floating structures by creating small rafts with straws and paper to see what floats and what doesn't.

By exploring these diverse living spaces, kids learn that while our homes might look different, the heart of what makes a home – family, love, and comfort – is universal.

Author: Moira Butterfield

I have been writing for many years in a number of different genres, from books for babies up to books for 11 year-olds plus. I like to try new things and tackle new subjects, so I don’t limit myself to one type of book. One month I might be writing about history, and the next month I might be creating an imaginary story. Examples of my work have been selected for national Key Stage study in the UK, and in the USA I was commended by the Library of Congress for my work in non-fiction, which they felt encouraged reluctant readers.

I work with visuals always in mind, and love the challenge of getting across information or an exciting story with good graphics to back it up. Lately I have been blogging about the craft of writing, and I’ve also appeared at National Book Festivals, which I think of as the most challenging thing of all to do! I get a lot of emails from children around the world, inspired by one of my books they have read, and that gives me great pleasure.