Why do some kids have to be so mean? Why do they have to make fun of others and leave kids out on purpose? Why? Being made fun of hurts!!! It hurts bad!

Tommy had to go live with his aunt and uncle in another state. He was already scared but then a new school too? His first day at Sunnyside Elementary, several students made fun of him right away. They made fun of his round glasses, his old battered tennis shoes, the way he stuttered. Why couldn't they at least give him a chance? They wouldn't let him play at recess because they thought he wasn't good enough to be on their soccer team. No one would let him sit with their friend group at lunch. He was left to eat at a table all my himself. He felt so alone, until finally at the end of the day, one student stood up for him. Because of this "One Student" that befriended Tommy, his world changed forever. This story beautifully illustrates the impact that one student can make if they have the courage to stand up for someone being picked on. This book teaches kindness, compassion, empathy, friendship and being a leader. The story "Don't Make Fun of Me" will help students see that their words hurt and once spoken can't be taken back. Richly illustrated 50 page (full color) book with powerful text that is excellent for parent and teacher discussion about kindness and acceptance of a new student. In the back of the book, there are 14 powerful thought provoking discussion questions entitled "Follow Up Discussion Questions" with experiments involving a tube of toothpaste, glass of clean water and a cup of dirt and spoon. A life lesson your child will not soon forget. The book also includes a (reproducible) poem entitle "Don't Make Fun of Me."

About the Author

I have been a high school and elementary educator for 34 years, fifteen as an elementary counselor and principal. I have seen the hurt firsthand of unkind words and actions and I wanted to do something about it. What better way than to write a book for students to read about how Tommy felt after being teased, made fun of and left out on his first day of school? My goal in writing this book is for all of us to be more careful of the things we say and do and help make this world a little kinder.

FOREWARNING

This isn't exactly a feel good warm and fuzzy book. This book will bring up emotions, feelings and is a great impetus to lead a discussion to help your child with life lessons on kindness, courage and becoming a leader.

Stanza From the Poem

Please don't laugh and make fun of me

I have feelings too why can't you see

No one wants to be called hurtful names

Can't you look inside and see my pain.

A perfect gift for your child's teacher and school library. (Early Childhood Edition coming soon!)