Kindergarden Read - Aloud

118 Presidents and American Symbols: Supplemental Guide 7A | Te d d y Ro o s eve l t

His father told him, “There is nothing more important than a good

education.”

So, when he was seventeen, Teddy went to college and received the

good education his father had talked about. Teddy always made sure

he gave his mind as much exercise as he gave his body.

 Show image 7A-7: Roosevelt as a young politician

After he finished college, Teddy had to decide what to do next.

He thought to himself, “My father was right. I must use every day I

have in this world to do important things.” Teddy decided to work in

government so he could help people.

Teddy was eventually elected the governor of the state of New York.

[Point to New York on the map.]

A governor is someone who is the leader of a state. As governor, he

helped make many new laws to help everyone: rich and poor, old and

young, men and women.

 Show image 7A-11: Roosevelt’s inauguration

Later, Teddy Roosevelt became vice president of the United States.

Six months later, he became president because President McKinley

died. He was forty-two years old; he was the youngest man to ever

serve as president.

 Show image 7A-8: Roosevelt and children on a nature walk

As busy as he was, Teddy loved to be outdoors with his family. Teddy

often led his children outdoors to explore the woods or play on the

lawn. He taught them all he knew about birds, animals, and plants.

[Ask: “Why do you think Teddy liked to be outdoors?” Remind students that

when he was young, his father encouraged him to build up his body, so he

spent a lot of time outdoors hiking, fishing, and hunting.]

 Show image 7A-12: Yosemite National Park

Even though he was president of the United States, which is a tough

and busy job, Teddy still found time for the outdoor activities he loved

as a child.