The Power of Asking Why

Students brainstorm difficult questions they have about the world and discuss how it feels when adults do not have clear answers. This prepares students for Theo’s questioning throughout the story.

Exploring Big Feelings

Students participate in a guided discussion about hearing upsetting or confusing news. The teacher establishes a safe environment and emphasizes that emotions such as worry, sadness or anger are valid. Students share coping strategies and discuss how children can be...

Role-Play Friendship

In small groups, students role-play scenarios from the book or classroom situations that demonstrate being a friend.

Text-to-Self Connections

Invite students to share if they have ever had a similar experience to the one shown in the story. Allow students to share verbally or with a partner.

New Places, New Friends

Ask students to think about a time they were new somewhere. How did it feel? Discuss feelings such as excitement, nervousness or shyness, and connect this to the beginning of the story.