Preparing for a Virginia Journey Part 2: Ages 5-8

This is Part Two of a four part series covering books and other resources for kids as they prepare for their journey through Virginia's rich history and nature.  This part is focused on children ages five through eight.

Other Age Groups:

Part 1: Ages 0-4

Part 3: Ages 5-8

Part 4: Ages 13+

A Picture Book of Robert E. Lee, by David A. Adler

A Picture Book of Robert E. Lee travels through the years of one of America's most famous generals.  The book covers all the highlights: birth, marriage, military service, and everything in the middle of after.  This illustrated narrative is particularly good for younger audiences.  It provides a good overview of Lee’s life without going into too much detail that might be inappropriate for younger children.  This is a well-written book that children are sure to enjoy as they prepare for a voyage into the history of Northern Virginia.

Mary Geddy's Day: A Colonial Girl in Williamsburg, by Kate Waters

Mary Geddy, a young girl living in Colonial Williamsburg, takes readers through her typical day as a kid in the last days of the American Revolution.  Mary does a good job pointing out the particulars of life in the colonies, such as the laborious process of getting dressed in full costume every day.  The simple words with relevant, real-life pictures makes this a great story for those in the early stages of their primary school years.  The book is also a great precursor to a visit to Colonial Williamsburg and will spark thoughts into what it must have been like to be a child in the forming days of our nation.

Saving Emma, by Bebe Willoughby

This charming fictional account of a sick baby girl, Emma, and her brother, Nathan, who is dedicated to save her life, takes place in the great state of Virginia.  Emma is ill.  She needs medicine right away.  So her big brother, Nathan heads to Alexandria, Virginia in search of the help she needs.  But the doctor is out.  Nathan tries hard to find the medicine her sister so dearly needs.    This book is best for children five and over, but it is a great way to stir the imagination about life in Colonial Virginia.

Washington, D.C. for Kids, Finley-Holiday Film Corp.

Max the Eagle will take your child on a trip through Washington, DC and Northern Virginia landmarks on the Fun Bus.  This DVD is interactive, with “Who Am I?” games and fun fact quizzes to test their knowledge of the region.  “Washington, DC for Kids” also includes illustrated maps of the famous landmarks and buildings in the region.  Your child is sure to love this good overview of what to expect on his or her trip to Northern Virginia and Washington, DC.