Just For You! Don't Hit Me
#3 of 21 in Just for you! Series
What’s inside...
When best friends get into a disagreement over a game of chess, one friend reacts physically while the other friend encourages using words instead of fists to resolve conflicts. The book is part of the JUST FOR YOU!(tm) series, which includes 24 beginning readers written and illustrated by people of color. The series aims to reflect young readers' experiences and includes stories set in various community locations, with instructional content for caregivers to enhance comprehension and vocabulary. Intended for use with Grades K-1.
Discussion points
How did the characters in the book feel when someone wanted to hit them?
What are some ways we can express our feelings without hitting?
Why is it important to listen to how others are feeling?
Can you think of a time when you felt like hitting, but chose to do something else instead?
How can we help friends who might be feeling angry or sad?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, ensure you’re in a quiet, comfortable space to foster open communication.
Use the characters’ experiences in the book to guide the conversation, relating their feelings and actions to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Emphasize the importance of empathy by discussing how understanding others' feelings can help resolve conflicts.
Encourage your child to think of alternative ways to express their emotions by brainstorming together different strategies they can use.
Validate your child’s feelings during the discussion to reinforce that it’s okay to feel upset, but crucial to handle it in a healthy and constructive manner.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: The book portrays various scenarios where children might feel frustrated or angry, explaining these emotions clearly.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and name their emotions, which is the first step in managing them effectively in real life.
Example Lesson: Importance of Communication
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate the use of words to express feelings instead of physical actions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by using their words to express how they feel when they are upset, rather than resorting to hitting or other physical actions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through interactions between characters, the book teaches children to consider how others feel when they are hurt.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the impact of their actions on others, promoting empathy and consideration in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Conflict Resolution
Explanation: The story provides examples of peaceful ways to solve disputes and disagreements among friends.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply these peaceful methods to resolve conflicts at school or in the playground without resorting to physical means.
Example Lesson: Respect for Others
Explanation: The narrative encourages treating everyone with respect, even during disagreements.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to maintain respect for peers and adults alike, fostering positive relationships and social interactions.