Always My Dad
From Reading Rainbow · 1996
28 minK1st2nd3rdReading & Writing (ELA)Social-Emotional Learning
Summary
Sharon Dennis Wyeth's tender story follows a girl who spends one summer with her father, who doesn't live with the family, and struggles with the sadness of his absence. LeVar Burton talks with children and families about love that survives distance.
Viewer safety
All ages
Common Sense Media — not yet ratedIMDb Parents Guide — not yet rated
Our rating is a quick teacher-to-teacher guide — preview before showing.
Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Discussion
A girl treasures the summer she spends with her father — and grieves when he leaves again.
- How does the girl feel when her dad is with her? How does she feel when he leaves?
- What does her dad say or do to help her feel secure even when he is away?
- What does "always my dad" mean to the girl?
- Who in your life is always there for you, even when you are apart?
Quick work-a-long
Vocabulary: absence, reassurance, family, distance, love.
Try it: Write a letter (real or imaginary) to someone you miss. Include one memory you share and one thing you look forward to doing together.