Family Tree: Portraits + Names + Generations

Level 2 strengthens comprehension + application.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

Large chart paper or whiteboard

Markers of various colours

Sugar paper (different colours)

Child-safe scissors

Glue sticks

Crayons or coloured pencils

Family photos or printed pictures of family members

Pre written family member name labels (e.g., "Grandma," "Mum," "Me")

Learning Objectives

Children will be able to identify and name at least three members of their family.

Children will be able to represent family members through drawing or collage.

Children will begin to understand the concept of generations within a family.

Children will express a sense of belonging and connection to their family.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather the children in a circle and introduce the idea of a family tree. Explain that a family tree shows who is in our family and how we are all connected, just like branches on a tree.

2. Begin by drawing a simple "trunk" on the chart paper. Ask children to share who is in their family. As they share, write their names or roles (like "Mum," "Dad," "Sister," "Brother," "Grandma") on the trunk.

3. Invite children to choose a piece of sugar paper. Explain that they will be creating portraits of their family members for their own family trees.

4. Children can draw their family members or cut out shapes to create portraits using the provided photos as inspiration. Encourage them to include details that make their family members special.

5. Once the portraits are complete, help children glue them onto their sugar paper, arranging them to show their family connections.

6. Assist children in attaching the pre written name labels to their portraits.

7. Together, look at the class family tree. Point to different branches and ask children to identify who is on it. "Whose grandma is this?" "Can you find your own picture?"

8. Encourage children to talk about their families by asking questions like, "Who looks after you at home?" or "Tell me something fun you do with your family."

9. Conclude by reinforcing that each of their family trees is special and shows the unique love within their homes.

Educator Tip

To support children who may have complex family structures or limited access to photos, encourage them to include very important people in their lives, such as pets, caregivers, or cherished friends, by referring to them as "family." Ensure all materials are accessible and safe for little hands.

Assessment

Observe children's ability to name family members and discuss their roles. Note their engagement in creating portraits and their understanding of who belongs on their family tree. Collect the children's completed family tree collages as a record of their learning and representation of their family connections.

Educator tip

Require complete thoughts; photograph work for portfolios.

Assessment

Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Anecdotal notes + product check.

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