Tiny Trailblazers: Spreading Sunshine with Good Behavior

The Lil' Leaders Podcast

In this week's REPOST episode, Abby shares her experiences of modeling good behavior when a substitute teacher is in class for the day. Why? So her peers can make good choices and experience a good situation. This time of year the season is changing, kids see the end in sight, and they are easily distracted. Abby's has a strong moral compass filled with positivity, compassion, sensitivity, and empathy. She shares great tips for helping the day run smoothly. Enjoy Abby in this week's interview.

Picture Book Recommendations:

a. Dear Substitute

Author: Liz Garton Scanlon & Audrey Vernick Illustrator: Chris Raschka

When a substitute teacher named Miss Pelly comes to class, one student bristles at the change in routine―Miss Pelly doesn't follow the rules like Mrs. Giordano. But in time, our student learns that even though the substitute may do things a little differently, and she may be a bit silly, mixing things up might not be so bad.Told in a series of epistolary poems, this funny, relatable picturebook is a great fit for classrooms and for any child nervous about new experiences.

b. What Would You Do

Author: Jennifer Moore-Mallinos Illustrator: Andy Catling

We make decisions all day, don’t we? Do I pick up the dog’s poop when I take him for his walk? Should I tell Mom where I really went after school? When I see something wrong happening, what should I do? Making a good choice, doing the right thing, or even knowing right from wrong can be hard! In What Would You Do? ​you can practice making hard decisions and have some fun while we explore some everyday dilemmas!​

c. That RULE Doesn't Apply to Me

Author: Julia Cook Illustrator: Anita DuFalla

"My name is Norman David Edwards, but everybody calls me Noodle. Sometimes I get into trouble because I don't follow the rules." Noodle is having a rough couple of days. The rules keep getting in the way of his fun! Rules for this and rules for that. There are so many rules - too many rules! Rules stink! Noodle has no use for obeying rules at home, or school. He argues about the rules and doesn't think any of them actually apply to HIM! Can't he just have a rule-free day? With help from mom, Noodle learns to visualize the consequences of no rules at all and begins to understand that rules help create a safe environment for everyone.

d. Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun

Author: Maria Dismondy Illustrator: Kim Shaw

Lucy has big hair, eats fun foods and is teased by a boy named Ralph at school because she is different. She tries to be brave but she wishes the teasing would stop. What should I do? she asks herself over and over.

Lucy’s Papa Gino reminds her to do the right thing and treat people with kindness. So when Ralph gets stuck on the playground and needs help, will Lucy use this chance to teach Ralph a lesson? Or will she have the courage to be true to herself and make the right choice with an act of kindness?

Cool Q's For Discussion: -Have you ever noticed peer behaviors changing when a substitute teacher came for a day or more? How about yours? -What did you do and were you pleased with your choices? -Name a few examples of strategies you use to make good decisions in every day situations.

-What is your main take away from today's episode? Why?

Have a great week!

Keep Reading and Keep Leading,

Tina