Refugee Week / Welcome Picture Book Circle
Welcome Picture Book Circle
A calm reading circle using picture books about finding a new home, making friends and belonging, followed by a gentle discussion.
How to run it
- Choose picture books on themes of welcome, friendship and starting somewhere new, checking them first so content suits the age group.
- Read one or two books aloud and pause to ask how characters might be feeling.
- Discuss simple questions: how did someone help, and what could we do to help a newcomer here?
- Look at free Refugee Week resources from the Refugee Council of Australia for more age-appropriate ideas, and consider inviting a local settlement or multicultural organisation to visit.
You will need
- selected picture books
- cushions or mat
Make it easier or harderYounger children answer with a feelings face card; older children write a kind message to a character.
SafetyPre-read books to avoid distressing detail, and be aware some children may have personal experience of displacement; let them share only if they want to.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 2, Outcome 5Children use stories to understand others' experiences and talk about how to include people.
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