Why Are You Barefoot?
By: Dr. Jeff Brodsky
Emma is very interested when she learns that their speaker in school today will be a man who has not worn shoes or socks in years. She wonders why he would do that—and whether he goes barefoot even in the winter! This is how she gets to meet Dr. Jeff Brodsky.
When he was asked to speak to elementary students about the tragedy of child trafficking in the world today, Brodsky was unsure how to share in a way that would help the students get a sincere understanding of this sensitive subject. He decided to tell the incredible true story of why he has been barefoot since July 2010 in solidarity with trafficked children. In doing so, he hoped to help his audience understand how, even today, children are forced into modern day slavery.
This wonderful children’s book presents the true story of author Jeff Brodsky as he talks to a group of young elementary students about present-day child slavery.
The Curriculum
Why Are You Barefoot? by Dr. Jeff Brodsky discusses the sensitive subject of modern-day slavery. The book lends itself to a variety of academic lessons, which have been incorporated into this curriculum for parents and teachers. The curriculum is adapted to fit each grade level, from Grades 1-6, and the activities can easily be adjusted across grade levels, as needed. Each curriculum offers questions to guide open-ended, age-appropriate discussions. Each activity is based on the Literacy and Writing objectives of the Common Core Curriculum.