Building a Nation: American History through Picture Books (1800-1900)

Looking for a history curriculum that bring the past to life for your youngest learners?

Building a Nation: American History through Picture Books is the perfect early elementary resource for families eager to explore the rich and vibrant history of the Early America from the time of Lewis and Clark through to the wave of European immigration at the last part of the 19th century. Designed as a gentle yet engaging spine for grades 1-3, this guide uses a good balance of beautifully curated picture books to immerse children in the lives and stories of the many different people living in America during this time. These stories chosen are told from a variety of perspectives from Native Americans, European Americans, Asian Americans and enslaved African Americans.

These 47 flexible lessons allow you to teach at your own pace while diving into the history of this time period and offers a few optional deep dives that allows for extra learning for those enthusiastic students that want more. If you do 1-2 lessons a week, this guide would last the whole year. Each lesson invites children to narrate what they've learned through beautifully written and illustrated picture books-- an approach that deepens understanding and sparks curiosity. 

Whether you are new to homeschooling or looking for a fresh way to teach early history, this guide offers a flexible, family-style learning experience that builds a strong historical foundation through a curated spine of quality and balanced picture books.