Then and Now: Choose How to Get an Answer

It can be hard to explain “then and now” when your child has only known instant calls and quick replies. If a simple question turns into “Why couldn’t they just text?” this page gives you a concrete picture to talk through.

On the printable page, children look at a museum scene with a bunny, a letter, and a phone call. They read or hear a short problem: someone needs to ask a distant relative a question and get an answer while they talk. The child circles the choice that fits the plan, then explains why mailing a letter would take longer. Response stems give them a place to say, “My idea,” “My reason,” and “I noticed.”

Use it after a family story, a pretend phone call, or a quick chat about how grandparents may have sent news. Ask, “Which choice gives an answer right now?” Then let your child point, circle, and say one reason out loud before writing or dictating it.

This worksheet is part of the Whizki Plus set, Kindergarten Social Studies Adventures. The set builds everyday social studies with illustrated kindergarten worksheets that invite children to compare past and present, notice community tools, and practice respectful discussion without adding screen time.

Keep the session short and friendly. Spend two minutes naming the pictures, three minutes choosing and explaining, and one minute listening to another idea. If your child gets stuck, ask, “Which one lets you hear the voice back while you are still talking?”