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The Daily Life of Families in Colonial America: A History for Kids

Jackson Blair

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Published in The Daily Life Of Families In Colonial America US History For Kids Grade 3 Children S History

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Colonial America was a time of great change and upheaval. The thirteen colonies that would eventually become the United States of America were a melting pot of different cultures and traditions. Families were the backbone of colonial society, and their daily lives were shaped by the challenges and opportunities of the New World.

The Daily Life of Families in Colonial America - US History for Kids Grade 3 | Children's History Books

by Baby Professor

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Language	:	English
File size	:	4876 KB
Print length	:	64 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Homes

Most colonial families lived in small, wooden houses. The houses were typically one or two stories tall, with a central chimney. The rooms were small and cramped, and there was often little privacy. Families slept in the same room, and children often shared beds.

The furnishings in colonial homes were simple and functional. There were usually a few chairs, a table, and a bed. The walls were often bare, except for a few religious prints or family portraits. The floors were usually made of dirt or wood, and they were often covered with rugs.

Food

The diet of colonial families varied depending on their location and social status. Wealthy families ate a lot of meat, while poor families relied more on vegetables and grains. The most common foods included cornbread, beans, potatoes, and salted fish.

Families typically cooked their meals over an open fire. They also used ovens and stoves, but these were often only available to wealthy families. Bread was a staple food, and it was often baked in a wood-fired oven.

Education

Education was not compulsory in colonial America, but many families sent their children to school. The schools were typically small and one-room, and they were often taught by the local minister or schoolmaster.

Boys were usually taught reading, writing, and arithmetic. Girls were typically taught reading, writing, and sewing. Some families also hired tutors to teach their children music, dancing, and other subjects.

Recreation

Colonial families had a variety of recreational activities. They enjoyed playing games, such as tag, hide-and-seek, and marbles. They also enjoyed singing, dancing, and storytelling.

Families often gathered together for special occasions, such as holidays and weddings. These occasions were often celebrated with food, drink, and music.

The daily life of families in colonial America was a complex and challenging one. However, it was also a time of great opportunity and growth. Families worked together to build a new life in the New World, and they laid the foundation for the United States of America.

This book provides a comprehensive look at the daily life of families in colonial America. It is a valuable resource for students, teachers, and anyone who is interested in the history of the United States.