A guide for using our resources

Children will gain an understanding of themselves as an integral part of their classroom community.

SEL Focus: self-awareness

CCSS (and states that have similar standards): SL.1.2, RF.1.3.B, RI.1.1, W.1.1, RL.1.1, RF.1.3, W.1.8

Simple, spectacular ideas to boost your lessons.

• This beautiful back-to-school story captures the universal sense of feeling “different.” However, by being themselves and proud of who they are, kids can make connections—and see how much they really do belong. 

• Work together to find and circle the sight word can. How many can you find?
• Then use a different color and circle the word here.

Skill: belonging, self-awareness

Materials: “My Quilt Square” skill sheet, markers, crayons, scissors, tape, colored construction paper or oaktag

• Give each child a copy of the skill sheet. Kids can write their name and draw a self-portrait in the center. They can also paste photos.
• Kids can use writing, drawing, or a combination to fill in the four corner squares. They can decorate the blank mini squares with their favorite colors.
• Cut out kids’ quilt squares. Mount them on colored sheets of construction paper and tape the sheets together, or mount them on one large piece of oaktag to make a “quilt.” Display it in the classroom.
• Show kids how each square is different. Together, the squares create something truly special. Without everyone’s piece, the quilt wouldn’t be the same. Just like the class wouldn’t be the same without each of them!