Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Warm tribute to school community urges gratitude for staff.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
OUR SCHOOL IS A FAMILY begins with a brief mention of where you might think of a family being -- in a home, an apartment, a country farm, a trailer, or maybe even a classroom, which is "like a home away from home. A cozy, caring place to be! But," the unseen narrator asks, "did you know you have a family that extends beyond your class? Our whole school's a family too!" The book goes on to point out all the adults who are part of the school family -- teachers, the principal, staff members, volunteers, a counselor, a librarian, learning specialists, the crossing guard, etc. There's also a shout-out to kids in other classes besides your own. "They're in our school family too!"
Is It Any Good?
This warm celebration of all the people who make the school community feel like a family urges readers to acknowledge them and show them gratitude. Our School Is a Family does a good job of expanding the concept of family beyond the classroom to the wider school and its unsung heroes, from the custodians and cafeteria workers to reading and speech specialists. The rhyming poetry is not particularly clever, but the positive message comes through loud and clear. And Sandie Sonke's cartoon-like illustrations are cheerful and inclusive.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about all the adults besides teachers who contribute to the school community in Our School Is a Family. Who at your school helps make your school feel like a family?
What can you do to show staff members at your school that you appreciate them? Why are gratitude and empathy important character strengths?
The story points out that eating together is something you do at school and with your family. What other things can you think of that you do in both settings?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Sandie Sonke
- Genre : Picture Book
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Empathy , Gratitude , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Shannon Olsen
- Publication date : March 12, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : August 25, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate