Using books as a learning tool is a great way to teach your children about developing good character traits. It helps them to see situations and responses to these from another's point of view. Such as learning about RESPECT. By being on the outside looking in, your child can begin to learn how to respect others and why they should respect others.
For grade schoolers I recommend the following books:
Do Unto Otters by Laurie Keller
A story about a rabbit who is frantic with worry when a family of otters has become his new neighbors. He changes his perspective when a wise owl reminds him of the golden rule: "Do unto otters as you would have otters do unto you." This is a sweet story that promotes giving people a chance, and more importantly respect.
Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun by Maria Dismondy
The story of Lucy who likes ketchup on toast, spaghetti on hot dog buns, and has a "mess of beautiful red hair"! Because of her differences, she is bullied at school. But instead of retaliation, she shows kindness to the boy who bullied her. This story can lead to a great discussion of how respecting ourselves first can make respecting others easier.
What if Everybody Did That? by Ellen Javernick
The story of a boy whose first impulse is always an "ornery one". He finds himself licking the icing off a cake, feeding popcorn to a bear at the zoo, and shooting spitballs at dinner. Every time he gets caught, someone asks him, "What if everybody did that?" A book that illustrates the importance of making respectful choices even when we are tempted to do something silly.
Happy Reading!!
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