say we.

SUGGESTIONS TO TEACHERS

This book is the first of a series of stories for supplementary reading
the purpose of which is to give children a correct idea of life in
different countries, both in the spirit and atmosphere of the story,
and in the actual descriptions. These books will also further a spirit
of friendliness and good will for children of other nationalities.
Respect for and an understanding of the life and customs of other
races, are not only educationally valuable, but are fundamentally
important in this "crucible of nations," where different races are
fusing themselves together as never before in the history of the world.
Tradition is a precious heritage, and the traditions of other nations
should be the natural inheritance of the American child, since here as
nowhere else all the nations of the earth are entering into our
national life.

The author has recognized from the start that the purpose of a book of
this kind would fail of realization if the narrative does not appeal
strongly to children. The delight with which the book has been received
by children is evidence that the important element of interest has not
been left out of the narrative.

To make the reading of this story most valuable as a school exercise,
it is suggested that children be allowed at the outset to turn the
pages of the book in order to get glimpses of "Kit" and "Kat," in the
various scenes in which they are portrayed, in the illustrations, thus
arousing their interest. With a globe, or a map of the world, point out
Holland, and tell the children something about the unique character of
the country.

The text is so simply written that any third or fourth grade child can
read it without much preparation. In the third grade it may be well to
have the children read it first in the study period in order to work
out the pronunciation of the more difficult words. In the fourth grade
the children can usually read it at sight, without the preparatory
study.

In connection with the reading of the book, have children read
selections from their readers and other books about Holland and its
people. The legend of "The Hole in the Dike" is an illustration of this
kind of collateral reading. Let children also bring to class postcards
and other pictures illustrating scenes in Holland.

The unique illustrations in the book should be much used, both in the
reading of the story and in other ways. Children will enjoy sketching