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As the title suggests, When Mama Goes to Work describes what happens in a family when a mother goes to work. This prospect can be very intimidating both for children and parents alike. However, this heartwarming and inspiring picture book is a good springboard for discussion and perfect to share with the whole family.
Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch introduces readers to several families to show what a typical day is like for them:
When Mama goes to work
She wears her working clothes.
She packs my lunch.
She combs her hair.
She takes her special bag.
The child describes his “playing clothes” as he packs his lunch, combs his hair and gets his special bag ready. In other words, a normal day is full of many ordinary events—even if Mama is at work! Both Mama and her child are busy during the workday. They smile as they get things done.
Even though Mama and her child miss each other, they know that they will be reunited at the end of the day. At home once again, they talk, cook, eat and read books together. At night, the child dreams of being like Mama as a grownup.
Today, working mothers are a reality in many families. Skrypuch’s beautiful picture book gives children a glimpse into the daily routine of these families. After reading the text, children will learn about their mother’s working day and how their own daily routine is similar. Children will be reminded that their loved ones will return after a busy day to provide love and support.
The illustrations are bright, lively and colorful. They illustrate that families come in many shapes and sizes. However, all children have to deal with being apart from their parents at times. This is the first book for illustrator Jessica Phillips. Her vibrant illustrations will definitely appeal to young children and provide a great tapestry for the ideas presented in this picture book.
Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch is the author of over sixteen picture books and novels for children. Her earlier picture books include Enough, Silver Threads and The Best Gifts. In 2013, she won the Silver Birch Fiction Award for Making Bombs for Hitler and the Red Cedar Award for Last Airlift: A Vietnamese Orphan’s Rescue from War.
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When Mama Goes to Work