Manners resources
my mouth is a volcano
This book may especially be a treasure in the classroom setting as well as for the family dynamic which might involve being interrupted for the millionth time! This story is about interrupting, and yet it's told in a fabulous way with the analogy of words coming out of the main character's mouth just like a volcano that is erupting. This main character just cannot help it; the words flow like the hot lava. That is until he gets a taste of what being interrupted feels like. With that comes perspective that he can learn to control his words.
the berenstain bears: That’s so rude!
This book is a great window into family dynamics and the constant interaction between siblings that can be down right rude. In Sister and Brother bears interaction, Mama Bear works to teach these siblings that there is a difference between being honest and being full out rude. This is a lesson that many of us can benefit from (adults and children alike) as we aspire to be honest within our families, yet learn to treat each other with respect and kindness. This story also highlights the power of getting outside and taking a walk as a valuable coping skill for both individuals and families in helping switch gears emotionally.
my turn!
Pammy and Wyatt have lots of fun playing together until Wyatt gets angry and wants it to be his turn! Pammy does not quite understand his perspective until she plays basketball with her brother and experiences what it's like to not have a turn. This gives her empathy and understanding, which inspires her to approach Wyatt with a delightful attitude as she gives him his turn. This is a great read for younger kids learning about how to take turns, whether at home or in the school setting.
A BAD CASE OF TATTLE TONGUE
This story is about a boy named Josh who tattles on others so often that his mom tells him that he is going to get a case of the Tattle Tongue. Naturally, Josh does not want this itchy and scratchy condition, so he stops tattling. He grows to realize, though, that there is a difference between tattling and reporting. There are times when telling an adult is the right thing to do especially if there is danger involved and someone could get hurt.
DISCLAIMER: Elizabeth is a member of Amazon Affiliates. If you choose to buy a product from any of these links, Burton Counseling will receive a small portion of the proceeds. You may choose instead to support your local bookstore and buy directly from them. These are book recommendations with therapeutic and character education themes that may or may not be helpful. This is not therapy itself.
Elizabeth B. Burton is a licensed professional counselor and life coach with Burton Counseling, PLLC. Elizabeth lives just outside of Chattanooga, TN., and you can learn about Elizabeth here. You can learn more about working directly with Elizabeth here. Elizabeth also provides support to individuals and groups through an online course on Coping with Anxiety & Stress and through providing workshops. Elizabeth communicates about mental health and well-being through both the Narrating Hope newsletter and podcast as well as through her writing. Elizabeth would love to connect with you and welcomes you to sign up for the newsletter, listen in to the podcast, reach out about working together, and connect on social media.