A Historical Picture of Family and Consumer Science Careers in Children's Literature

Abstract

Five family and consumer sciences career novels written for young people were reviewed for commonalities in theme, experience and setting. Professionals in these books were portrayed as resourceful in designing effective solutions to solve local problems. Since most of the books are about Extension careers and the last book was written in the 1960s, additional promotion of family and consumer sciences as a career is suggested.

Sibling Roles Represented in Children's Books about Chinese–US Family Adoption

“…Books become a means by which young children learn about social expectations and integrate these expectations into their sense of identity (Jue-Steuck, 2011;Rodman & Hildreth, 2002). It is important to explore family types/dynamics in children's fiction (Rodman & Hildreth, 2002;Scholl, 2008). In addition, some researchers have noted that the absence/invisibility of some individuals in children's literature diminishes the importance of family members (e.g., Adams, Walker & O'Connell, 2011).…”

“…Research has indicated that children are impacted by the (i) media to which they are allowed access by adults and (ii) parents' communications about media (Notten & Kraykamp, 2009;Price, Kleeck & Huberty, 2009). An analysis of children's books can also be helpful to family and consumer science professionals who work with families that utilize such texts (e.g., Scholl, 2008). parents keep a watchful eye over the reactions of significant others and general community members.…”

“…In addition, some researchers have noted that the absence/invisibility of some individuals in children's literature diminishes the importance of family members (e.g., Adams, Walker & O'Connell, 2011). It is important to explore family types/dynamics in children's fiction (Rodman & Hildreth, 2002;Scholl, 2008).…”