Read a squash and a squeeze / Activity Analysis

Art

• The child can learn about the concept of perspective by observing the illustrations in the book and noticing how the size and positioning of the characters and objects create a sense of depth.
• They can also explore the use of colors and patterns in the illustrations and try to recreate them in their own artwork.
• The child can learn about the concept of composition by analyzing how the illustrator has arranged the elements on each page to create a visually pleasing and balanced image.
• They can experiment with different compositions in their own drawings or paintings.

English Language Arts

• The child can develop their reading comprehension skills by answering questions about the story, such as identifying the problem and solution or making predictions about what might happen next.
• They can practice retelling the story in their own words, focusing on the main events and key details.
• The child can expand their vocabulary by discussing the meanings of unfamiliar words encountered in the book and using them in their own writing.
• They can also explore the use of descriptive language in the book and try to incorporate it into their own storytelling or writing.

Math

• The child can practice counting and number recognition by counting the various animals mentioned in the book and keeping track of the totals.
• They can explore the concept of size by comparing the different animals and objects in the story and sorting them from smallest to largest or vice versa.
• The child can also learn about measurement by estimating and measuring the dimensions of the different rooms in the story using non-standard units of measurement, such as their own hand spans.
• They can also practice basic addition and subtraction by solving simple word problems related to the story, such as determining how many animals are left after some are removed.

Physical Education

• The child can engage in a movement activity inspired by the animals in the story, such as pretending to be a hen, a pig, a goat, or a cow, and imitating their movements.
• They can also participate in a game of "Simon Says" using animal actions or movements mentioned in the book.
• The child can practice their coordination and balance by attempting to walk or balance on a line, just like the old lady in the story.
• They can also create a simple obstacle course using household objects and try to complete it, focusing on agility and speed.

Science

• The child can learn about animal habitats by discussing where each animal mentioned in the story might live and why.
• They can explore the concept of farm animals and their roles by researching more about each animal mentioned in the book and their purposes in a farm setting.
• The child can learn about the concept of animal needs by discussing what each animal requires to survive and thrive, such as food, water, shelter, and space.
• They can also explore the concept of animal adaptations by discussing how each animal mentioned in the story is well-suited for its environment or has specific physical or behavioral characteristics.

Social Studies

• The child can learn about the concept of community by discussing the different roles and interactions between the characters in the story, such as the old lady, the wise man, and the various animals.
• They can explore the concept of gratitude and helping others by reflecting on the actions of the old lady and the wise man, and discussing how their actions benefited the community.
• The child can also learn about the concept of resourcefulness by discussing how the old lady utilized her limited space and resources to accommodate the animals and find a solution to her problem.
• They can explore the concept of problem-solving by brainstorming alternative solutions the old lady could have tried and discussing the potential outcomes.

Continued Development Tip: Encourage the child to create their own version of the story "Read a squash and a squeeze" by changing the animals or setting. They can also write a sequel to the story, imagining what happens next to the old lady and the wise man. This will enhance their creativity, storytelling skills, and provide an opportunity for further exploration of the concepts learned.

Book Recommendations

• Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson: This book is another delightful rhyming story by the same author that explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• The Little Red Hen by Paul Galdone: This classic folktale teaches important lessons about hard work, cooperation, and the consequences of laziness.
• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White: This heartwarming story about the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte touches on themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the cycle of life.