All teachers understand the importance of fostering self-acceptance and encouraging students to embrace their uniqueness. Even in the lower grades, there can be immense pressure for students to fit in, blend in and be 'cool'. So how do you show students that our diversity is our strength, and something to be proud of?
One way I love to model and discuss self-confidence and self-acceptance is through picture books.
In this post I will share my five favourite picture books and accompanying activities!
1. 'Giraffes Can't Dance' by Giles Andreae
Gerald was a tall giraffe
Whose neck was long and slim
But his knees were awfully bandy
And his legs were rather thin
Gerald would love to join in with the other animals at the Jungle Dance, but everyone knows that giraffes can't dance... or can they?
This gorgeous book is a funny, touching and triumphant story about being yourself and finding your own tune, Giraffes Can't Dance has been a family favourite for 20 years.
After reading the book, why not create a dancing giraffe artwork? Using the template from Teaching Ideas your students can cut and paste Gerald's arms and legs in any dancing position they fancy!
2. 'Incredible You' by Rhys Brisenden and Nathan Reed
Ever had a bad day and just wished you were someone else? Perhaps a mountain gorilla? Or a fierce tiger? But wait... just think of all the amazing things that YOU can do!
This heartwarming book by debut author and high school teacher, Rhys Brisenden, reminds us that we are all unique and incredible!
This book sets the scene for a beautiful discussion about what makes us incredible. Have your students sit in a circle and pass around a ball or beanbag, and share something that makes them special.
Looking for another follow up activity? All subscribers can access this FREE reflection sheet via their account portal. Haven't joined the club yet? Sign up HERE for instant access!
3. 'Elmer' by David McKee
Elmer was different. Elmer was patchwork. Elmer was yellow and orange and red and pink and purple and blue and green and black and white.
Elmer was not elephant colour.
Elmer remains one of the most iconic and widely read children’s book series of all time. Elmer reminds us that it's not only ok, but awesome, to be different!
After reading this book, why not make your own patchwork elephant? Just glue squares of coloured paper onto an elephant template. This is a great art activity to clear out your storeroom of coloured paper offcuts too!
4. 'The Girl who Never Made Mistakes' by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein
Beatrice Bottomwell has NEVER (not once!) made a mistake...until she does the unthinkable - she makes her first mistake! And in a very public way!
This book is a great discussion starter, and one that's especially important for those in your class who are perfectionists. After reading the book, allow your students to share their own funny mistakes as well as the lessons they learned.
Looking for another follow up activity? This freebie can also be found in my freebie folder! See HERE!
5. 'The Dreadful Fluff' by Aaron Blabey
Serenity Strainer was perfect. But then she discovered something perfectly awful. "Belly button fluff!? That can't possibly be mine!" she said. But it was. And guess what? It was evil.
This hilarious book is a crowd pleaser for all students K-6. Through humour it explores the importance of true self-acceptance and the need to accept and embrace all aspects of ourselves - even the dreadful parts! Another great one for those perfectionists who need to see that perfection is not only unattainable but undesirable and boring!
As a follow up activity, I love the idea of students bringing their own dreadful monsters to life! Check out Adventure in a Box for a tutorial on how to make these cute little creatures.
So there you have it! My 5 favourite picture books for teaching self-acceptance and self-confidence!
Are these books you've come across before? Do you have your own favourites that I should add to the list?
Comment below to share you ideas, I'd love to hear from you!
Want some other great follow up activities? Check out these amazing resources too!
