Modeling Wanted Behaviors

Sometimes we work so hard to get children to do what we want that we forget that modeling the behavior may be the best way to influence how children act. The book, There, There, by Sam McBratney and illustrated by Ivan Bates shows this so well. In the story, Little Hansie has one injury after another and each time his dad comforts him and reminds him that everything will be okay.  One day, though it is the dad who is hurt and it is Hansie's turn to comfort him.

Children won't be thinking about how important positive role modeling is to them. They will most likely be looking at the beautiful illustrations and thinking about how Hansie is acting all grown up when he helps his dad. It is important for children to understand they have the power to make things better, to help others and this story gives that subtle reminder.

When using it in the classroom, talk about who helps the children feel better and how they have helped others.  Each year we often do a short lesson on how to help someone who has a scrape. The children love learning about washing the hurt area, possible putting on ( pretend) antibiotic and then applying a bandage.  It makes them feel good about themselves.  You might want to follow up with a writing/drawing prompt about how the children help others. You can talk about the difference between a physical hurt and a feeling of hurt.  Not all children will get this concept, but it never too soon to begin such conversations.

This book is also great for predictions, retelling , and even acting out. Sometimes though, a book can simply be a story to be shared and not used for teaching a specific topic. This is a good book for that, too.  Take time to enjoy it with the children in your life.