Illustration of a family in a homeless shelter with hopeful expressions
A Different Beat
A Different Beat
Average Rating: 3.3
Country: USA
Ages: 5-8
Author: Shyrelle Kalilikane
Publisher: Room To Read
Illustrator: John Joseph
Story Source: Literacy cloud

About The Story

When a single mother loses her job and her family is forced to move into a homeless shelter, she still finds ways to inspire hope in her children. This touching story explores the emotional and social struggles of children experiencing housing insecurity and the quiet courage it takes to hold onto one’s dignity when everything seems an uphill task.

Themes

Inclusion
Health & Wellbeing

Sub Themes

Homelessness
Displacement
Empathy and kindness
Hope in adversity

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

  • Understand the impact of homelessness on children.
  • Recognize global housing insecurity and its effect on education
  • Reflect on social exclusion and bullying due to poverty.
  • Cultivate empathy and respect for all peers.
  • Inspire strength and hope in children facing hardship

Lesson Plan

  • Introduce the topic of homelessness with care and sensitivity. Use the story as a window into the daily life of a child who is experiencing housing insecurity. Prompt students to think deeply about the role of empathy, kindness, and how hard it is to keep going when your life is turned upside down..

Activities

  • Empathy Role-Play
  • Art for Hope
  • Write a Journal Entry
  • Global Reflection

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

  • Have you ever thought about what it would be like not to have a home?
  • Why do you think people might have to live in shelters?
  • How do you think children feel when their lives suddenly change this way?

During reading

  • How do the children in the story try to stay strong?
  • What does the mother do to keep hope alive for her family?
  • Do you notice how the children are treated by others around them?

After reading

  • What are some reasons children might be left out or teased in school?
  • How do you think it feels to be called names or treated unfairly just because you’re poor?
  • What can we do to be kinder and more supportive friends?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 1: No Poverty

Highlights the impact of poverty and unemployment on families.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Focuses on social exclusion and peer discrimination faced by homeless children

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Promotes empathy, fairness, and inclusion for all children

Comments

Comments

  • wow! it’s so nice! My kids loved it

    Alex

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