Why This Book?
National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López have teamed up to create a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone. In dual language format, it validates identity, home language, and cultural roots—perfect for the start of the school year.
There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look or talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it.
Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.
Montessori Connections
- Practical Life & Sensorial: Create a “welcome shelf” where children bring in a small object that represents them.
- Language: Name cards in English and Spanish; children practice matching sounds and letters.
- Math & Order: Sequencing daily routines with picture cards (morning, lunch, dismissal).
- Art & Expression: Self-portraits with bilingual labels for name and favorite thing.
Music & Movement
Sing children’s names in English and Spanish during circle time. Clap the syllables as you sing.
Family Connections
Encourage families to share the story of their child’s name. Provide a bilingual take-home sheet with prompts: “Who named you? What does your name mean?”
Montessori Big Idea
Supports grace and courtesy by highlighting each child’s strengths and uniqueness.
Try This at Home
Write your child’s name in both languages on index cards. Place them on a shelf for your child to match to their photo.
Final Thought
This book reminds us that each child belongs. In both English and Spanish, The Day You Begin encourages children to celebrate who they and others are.
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