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Learning Together Joyfully: November: Remembering & Being Kind 

Welcome back parents, educators, grandparents and caregivers! Fall has settled in with blustery cooler weather. Enjoy the Fall books, songs and activities. November means taking time with our children on November 11 to remember those who gave their lives so we can live with peace and freedom. Enjoy the many activities, songs and books to honour this occasion. Additionally, we have many songs, books and activities to celebrate Kindness Day on November 13th. Lastly, writing is a focus, so we have included information including activities, songs and books about teaching personal narrative. Enjoy the activities, books and songs as you play, learn, grow, together throughout November!

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During or after reading point out some of the important characteristics of a personal narrative:

  • It’s a story from the author’s life;
  • It has a beginning, middle, and end;
  • The author focuses on a small moment and stretches it out with detail.

When teaching students a plan to write a personal narrative, consider using a “my turn-your turn” approach. You write the topic, then ask children to write their topic. Think aloud about the setting and write it down. Then they write down their setting. Think aloud about what happens at the beginning and write a few notes, then they do the same. Each week pick a different teaching focus.  Some writing skills you might choose to focus on include:

  • Using transition words;
  • Using dialogue;
  • Writing a good lead;
  • Using capital letters and end marks;
  • Including sensory details;
  • Using interesting words.

The following are Anchor Charts you might brainstorm with your class and then leave as reminders in the classroom.

PERSONAL NARRATIVE BOOKS: Before students start to write their own personal narratives, they need to be exposed to a good examples.  Enjoy reading some of the following suggested personal narrative mentor books. Check them out at your local school or public library or consider purchasing them as gifts.

  • Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems. Trixie, Daddy, and Knuffle Bunny take a trip to the neighborhood Laundromat. But the exciting adventure takes a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes some bunny was left behind? Using a combination of muted black-and-white photographs and expressive illustrations, this stunning book tells a brilliantly true-to-life tale about what happens when Daddy’s in charge and things go terribly, hilariously wrong.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to write about an experience they have had with their Dad where something went wrong.

  • It Takes a Village by Hillary Rodham Clinton. This book tells the heartwarming and universal story of a diverse community coming together to make a difference. All kinds of people working together, playing together, and living together in harmony makes a better village and many villages coming together can make a better world. Together we can build a better life for one another. Together we can change our world. The book will resonate with children and families and through the generations as it encourages readers to look for a way they can make a difference. It is a book that you will surely want to read again and again, a book you will want to share and a book that will inspire.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to write about an experience they have had where the community came together to support a change.

  • Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes. From one of the most celebrated and beloved picture book creators working in the field today comes a memorable new character and a suspenseful adventure just right for reading and sharing at home and in the classroom. It is Kitten’s first full moon, and when she sees it she thinks it is a bowl of milk in the sky. And she wants it. Does she get it? Well, no . . . and yes. What a night!  This book shares elemental words, rhythms, and appealing sounds, telling a warm, humorous story that’s beautifully extended in his shimmering, gray-toned artwork. The Indefatigable Kitten is a role model for all ages—taking chances, picking herself up when she fails, trying out new strategies to get what she wants, and figuring out when enough is enough.

Follow-up activity: Ask children to write about a time when they wanted something, failed but tried different strategies to get what they wanted.

  • The Dandelion Seed by Joseph Anthony.  Follow the journey of a tiny dandelion seed who was afraid to let go. With poignant, simple storytelling and gorgeous artwork, this best-selling picture book introduces plant life cycles while reminding us to let go and embrace change. One tiny dandelion seed wants to hold onto its dandelion home, until the winter wind carries it away. The seed worries it won’t be able to find its place in such a vast and frightening world. But everything is much more beautiful than it ever thought, and perhaps finding a new home isn’t such a bad thing after all.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to write about a time when they were frightened about a change but ended up finding it improved their circumstances.

  • The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant. In a rainbow-colored station wagon that smelled like a real car, the relatives came. When they arrived, they hugged and hugged from the kitchen to the front room. All summer they tended the garden and ate up all the strawberries and melons. They plucked banjos and strummed guitars. When they finally had to leave, they were sad, but not for long. They all knew they would be together next summer.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to reflect on a situation where their relatives visited and how they felt.

  • Fireflies by Julie Brinckloe. This book reflects a classic theme in children’s literature—the need to set something free in order to keep it. A young boy is proud of having caught a jar full of fireflies, which seems to him like owning a piece of moonlight, but as the light begins to dim he realizes he must set the insects free or they will die.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to write about times they have caught insects, let them go, and how it made them feel.

  • Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst. Alexander could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. He went to sleep with gum in his mouth and woke up with gum in his hair. When he got out of bed, he tripped over his skateboard and by mistake dropped his sweater in the sink while the water was running. He could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. It was a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Nothing at all was right. Everything went wrong, right down to lima beans for supper and kissing on TV. What do you do on a day like that? Well, you may think about going to Australia. You may also be glad to find that some days are like that for other people too.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to write about their terrible, horrible, very bad day.

  • Roller Coaster by Marla Frazee. From Caldecott Honor–winning author-illustrator Marla Frazee, a thrilling picture book that takes readers up, up, up to the highest point of a roller coaster, where no book has ever gone before! Wheee! This exhilarating amusement park visit begins with a line of prospective riders, eagerly awaiting their turn . . . with at least one person who has never done this before. Zooming, swerving, dipping, and diving, this delightful story featuring a breathtaking ride and a hilarious range of reactions, will help readers lose their roller coaster anxiety. Marla Frazee’s witty narrative and sly building of tension delivers an experience unlike any other and will have readers begging to take another ride.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to think of a time they rode a roller coaster or something scary and how they felt.

  • A Chair for my mother by Vera B. Williams. This book is about a young girl who, along with her waitress mother, saves coins in a big jar in hopes that they can someday buy a new chair for their apartment, the kind of chair her mother deserves after being on her feet all day in the Blue Tile Diner. Into the jar also goes the money Grandma saves whenever she gets a bargain at the market. There hasn’t been a comfortable place to sit in the apartment since a fire in their previous apartment burned everything to “charcoal and ashes.” Friends and neighbors brought furniture to their new apartment downstairs, but no one bought anything big or soft or comfortable. Finally the jar is full, the coins are rolled, and in the book’s crowning moment, mother, daughter, and Grandma search four different furniture stores, and after carefully trying several chairs, like Goldilocks, they find the chair they’ve been dreaming of at last. Vera Williams enhances this story about family, community, and the power of working together toward a common goal with her signature folk art-inspired paintings.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to think of something their family saved and looked forward to having.

  • Owl Moon by Jane Yolen. Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird. But there is no answer. Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don’t need words. You don’t need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn’t an owl, but sometimes there is. Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind’s close relationship to the natural world. Wonderfully complemented by John Schoenherr’s soft, exquisite watercolor illustrations, this is a verbal and visual treasure, perfect for reading aloud and sharing at bedtime.

Follow-up Activity: Ask children to reflect on a time and write about when they experienced something exciting in the outdoors.

Uniqueteachingresources.com

BOOKS ABOUT KINDNESS: World Kindness Day is on November 13, 2023. It is a day that encourages individuals to overlook boundaries, race and religion. According to psychologists, altruistic acts increase our own happiness in a profound way. World Kindness Day was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement. It is observed in many countries, including Canada, Japan, Australia, Nigeria and others. Kindness is the act or the state of being kind. It is marked by goodness and charitable behaviour, mild disposition, pleasantness, tenderness and concern for others. It is known as a virtue, and recognized as a value in many cultures and religions. Sharing stories has a positive impact on young students. Ask them to talk about a time they felt left out or when someone was being unkind. Consider using some of the recommended read-aloud books below to stimulate discussion. Discuss ways the situation could have gone differently if kind actions were used. Check them out at your local school or public library or consider purchasing them as gifts.

  • Have you Filled A Bucket Today by Carol McCloud. While using a simple metaphor of a bucket and a dipper, this book illustrates that when we choose to be kind, we not only fill the buckets of those around us, but also fill our OWN bucket! Conversely, when we choose to say or do mean things, we are dipping into buckets. All day long, we are either filling up or dipping into each other’s buckets by what we say and what we do. When you’re a bucket filler, you make the world a better place to be! This 32-page picture book is perfect for children, parents, grandparents, teachers and people that want to teach empathy, nurture kindness and create a positive environment in their home, classroom, workplace and community.
  • One Smile by Cindy McKinley is a story of paying it forward. It shows the chain of events that one small act of kindness can cause the next person to do an act of kindness and that eventually, it all comes full circle.
  • We’re All Wonders by  R. J. Palacio. Now younger readers can meet Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face, and his beloved dog, Daisy. In this book, Palacio makes her picture-book debut as both author and artist, with a spare, powerful text and striking, richly imagined illustrations. She shows readers what it’s like to live in Auggie’s world—a world in which he feels like any other kid, but he’s not always seen that way. This book may be Auggie’s story, but it taps into every child’s longing to belong, and to be seen for who they truly are. It’s the perfect way for families and educators to talk about empathy and kindness with young children.
  • The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is the story of a boy who nobody notices.  Then, one day a new kid arrives in class and the invisible boy makes friends with him and they in turn pair up to work on a project together.
  • The Can Man by Laura E. Williams. Tim’s birthday is just a week away, and more than anything he wants a skateboard. But money is tight, and Tim knows his family cannot afford to buy him a board. As Tim ponders how he might earn money for a skateboard, he hears The Can Man down the street collecting empty soft drink cans. The clang of the cans in the homeless man’s cart gives Tim an idea. He will collect cans too, and cash them in for the redemption money. By the end of the week, Tim has almost reached his goal–until a couple of chance encounters with The Can Man change everything. Told with honesty and respect, this timely story shines a perceptive light on current social concerns. Readers will be encouraged to think beyond themselves and celebrate the simple acts of kindness and sharing that make a difference in people’s lives.
  • Be kind by Pat Z. Miller. When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind? From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend. This book is an unforgettable story about how two simple words can change the world.
  • Thank you, Omu by Oge Mora. Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu’s delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself? This book brings to life a heartwarming story of sharing and community in colorful cut-paper designs as luscious as Omu’s stew, with an extra serving of love. An author’s note explains that “Omu” (pronounced AH-moo) means “queen” in the Igbo language of her parents, but growing up, she used it to mean “Grandma.” This book was inspired by the strong female role models in the author’s life.
  • Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson. This book has a powerful anti-bullying message and includes striking art, it will resonate with readers long after they’ve put it down. Chloe and her friends won’t play with the new girl, Maya. Every time Maya tries to join Chloe and her friends, they reject her. Eventually Maya stops coming to school. When Chloe’s teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the lost opportunity for friendship, and thinks about how much better it could have been if she’d shown a little kindness toward Maya.
  • Try a Little Kindness by Henry Cole. In this funny picture book, kids are shown different ways to be kind with his hysterical cartoon animal characters. Each page features a different way to be a good person, like using proper manners, telling someone they are special, or sharing a treat! The text is accompanied by two or three related vignettes of different animals giving examples of ways to be good. And in one illustration out of each set, one animal (like a cat peering into a fishbowl!) may not be doing the best job of being kind! The animal characters and simple text will help readers learn the importance of kindness in a fun way with lots of kid appeal. Our animal friends will show exactly how it is done.
  • I walk with Kindness – a Story about a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoet. Inspired by real events, this book explores the feelings of helplessness and anger that arise in the wake of seeing a classmate treated badly, and shows how a single act of kindness can lead to an entire community joining in to help. By choosing only pictures to tell their story, the creators underscore the idea that someone can be an ally without having to say a word. With themes of acceptance, kindness, and strength in numbers, this timeless and profound feel-good story will resonate with readers young and old.
  • When we are Kind by Monique Gray Smith. This book celebrates simple acts of everyday kindness and encourages children to explore how they feel when they initiate and receive acts of kindness in their lives. Celebrated author Monique Gray Smith has written many books on the topics of resilience and reconciliation and communicates an important message through carefully chosen words for readers of all ages. This book encourages children to be kind to others and to themselves.
  • Pass It On by Sophy Henn. When you see something terrific, smile a smile and pass it on! If you chance upon a chuckle, hee hee hee and pass it on. Should you spot a thing of wonder, jump for joy and pass it on! So begins Sophy Henn’s ode to the excitement of sharing happiness with others. With a refrain that begs to be uttered before every turn of the page, children will eagerly read alongside their parents as they discover how wonderful–and fun!–it is to share the good things in life. After all, if you spread happiness to others, even on a gray, rainy day, when you least expect it, like a bolt out of the blue, a smile or a chuckle might be passed right back to you! This heartwarming, upbeat book is the perfect way to bring a warm ray of sunshine into every reader’s life.

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REMEMBRANCE DAY BOOKS: As Remembrance Day is approaches, it is important to talk to children about remembrance and the significance of wearing a poppy. It’s so important that the younger generation, like all of us, appreciate how lucky we are. Especially in these times when war is happening throughout the world. Children should be aware of the sacrifices made by so many. The following are some favorite Remembrance Day books for children that help explain it all in a child-friendly, empathetic way. Check them out at your local school or public library or consider purchasing them as gifts.

  • Where the Poppies Now Grow by Hilary Robinson. This book is about two friends who play together as children and then go off to the First World War together. It tells of the battles and injuries and their enduring friendship. It’s a gentle rhyming story that deals with conflict sensitively while the watercolor illustrations are evocative without being too graphic or upsetting for young children.

  • What Does Peace Feel Like? by Vladimir Radunsk. This book is in honour of Remembrance Day. What does Peace really mean? Ask children from around the world, and this is what they say.
https://amzn.to/2RD0Phg
  • The Peace Book by Todd Parr. Peace is making new friends. Peace is helping your neighbor. Peace is growing a garden. Peace is being who you are. This book delivers positive and hopeful messages of peace in an accessible, child-friendly format featuring Todd Parr’s trademark bold, bright colors and silly scenes. Perfect for the youngest readers, this book delivers a timely and timeless message about the importance of friendship, caring, and acceptance.
  • Peace Week in Miss Fox’s Class by Eileen Spinelli. No more squabbling! It’s Peace Week, and the rules are simple: don’t say mean things, and help others! But maybe that’s not so simple after all. Can Miss Fox’s Class keep the peace? Through this picture book, kids learn the importance of kindness and peace.
  • Peace Dancers by Roy Henry Vickers. The children of the Tsimshian village of Kitkatla love to play at being hunters, eager for their turn to join the grown-ups. But when they capture and mistreat a crow, the Chief of the Heavens, angered at their disrespect, brings down a powerful storm. The rain floods the Earth and villagers have no choice but to abandon their homes and flee to their canoes. As the seas rise, the villagers tie themselves to the top of Anchor Mountain, where they pray for days on end and promise to teach their children to value all life. The storm stops and the waters recede. From that point on, the villagers appoint a chief to perform the Peace Dance at every potlatch and, with it, pass on the story of the flood and the importance of respect. With eighteen new illustrations from Roy Henry Vickers and exceptional narrative, Peace Dancer will delight readers of all ages and add to the collection of global flood stories.
  • You, Me, We – A Celebration of Peace and Community by Arun Gandhi & Bethany Hegedus. Peace is you. Peace is me. Peace is the great big WE of community. Where can we find peace? It shows in the way we walk, stand, or form a circle. It can be found when we play or dig in the garden, speak up or ask for help, or sit still and listen to the silence. Whether we’re learning, taking turns, or getting past hurt feelings and misunderstandings, peace is always there, as long as we look at one another, ready to discover. Drawing on the philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi and educator Maria Montessori, the coauthors offer an inviting primer brought to life through the warm, wondrous illustrations of Colombian artist Andrés Landazábal. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “If we are to teach real peace in this world . . . we shall have to begin with children.” You, Me, We do just that, as it celebrates the peace that can be found in us all.
  • Blowin’ in the Wind by Bob Dylan. This book is an illustrated version of the song and includes a CD.  It’s the perfect book to share for Remembrance Day. Books like this, with powerful underlying messages, always lead to the best post-reading discussions. This is a good book to share with children on Remembrance Day and with other Peace books.
  • A Poppy Is to Remember by Heather Patterson. How did the bright red poppy that we all wear in November become Canada’s symbol of honouring those who fought for our freedom on Remembrance Day? Moving text coupled with stunning illustrations by Governor General’s Award-winning artist Ron Lightburn explain the symbolism behind the poppy. A bonus for teachers is the five-page spread about the poem, “In Flanders Fields,” Canada’s wartime and peacekeeping  endeavours, and the adoption of the poppy as our Remembrance Day emblem.
  • Stubby by Michael Foreman. It’s not just our brave men and women we need to thank for their service, there were so many animals who suffered too. This book is about the true story of the dog who bravely served alongside Corporal Robert Conroy and became the most decorated war dog of World War One. The story highlights the horror of war but is also a heartwarming tale of friendship, loyalty and courage.
  • Bunny the Brave War Horse by Elizabeth MacLeod. A heartwarming story of a World War I war horse who was as brave and strong as any soldier.
  • Remembrance Day by Molly Aloian. Examines the history of Remembrance Day and describes some of the ways that this holiday is celebrated.
  • Rags: Hero Dog of WWI by Margot Theis Raven. During World War I, Private James Donovan literally stumbles upon a small dog cowering on the streets of Paris.
  • In Flanders Fields by Norman Jorgensen. A young World War I soldier risks his life to cross the no-man’s-land and rescue a robin caught in barbed wire.
  • Sadako’s Cranes by Judith Loske. Sadako, who lived in Hiroshima when the atomic bomb was dropped, hears of a legend which says that folding 1,000 paper cranes grants a wish.
  • The Poppy Lady by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh. Why do we wear a poppy on Remembrance Day?  Against all odds,  in a day when women had few rights and opportunities, Moina Belle Michael almost single-handedly launched a national campaign to establish the red poppy as the symbol of sacrifice and courage of America’s soldiers.  Gorgeous illustrations.
  • In Flanders Fields – The Story of the Poem by John McCrae written by Linda Branfield. A tribute to the famous World War I poem, “In Flanders Fields”. Informative and moving, weaving the words of the poems with fascinating information and stunning illustrations. This is the 2015 special edition that marks 100 years since the poem was written and includes additional information and a new cover.
  • Why by Nikoli Popov. A frog picks a flower;  a mouse wants it… and so begins this simple, profound tale about how war starts and ends.  This wordless picture book is one I have shared with many classes – perfect for practicing inferring and stimulating important discussions.
  • Enemy – A Book About Peace by David Cali. This poignant book has many layers of meaning but ultimately, it is the story that shows the humanity behind war.  Two soldiers, each in their own solitary bunker, wonder what the other is doing and eventually learn they are more alike than they are different.  Simple but oh, so powerful.
  • No by David McPhail. The word “No” repeated three times is the only written text in this otherwise wordless book with a powerful message.  In simple terms that anyone can understand, McPhail tackles the weighty subject of war and its effects on people. What’s more, he shows us what we can do to stand up and say NO.
  • Faithful Elephants: A True Story of Animals, People and War by Yukio Tsuchiya. This is a  very sad picture book that tells the true story of a tragedy at the Tokyo zoo during World War II and the painful decision one zoo-keeper has to make.  This story really shows the impacts of war not just on humans, but on animals.  Warning – Kleenex required.
  • Proud as a Peacock, Brace as a Lion by Jane Barclay. A gentle and caring grandpa answers his grandson’s questions about what it was like to serve in the war. As the two make a game of preparing for a memorial service, the child comes to understand the importance of the solemn occasion and the act of remembering.
  • Imagine by John Lennon. Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us, and the world will be as one. Join one little pigeon as she sets out on a journey to spread a message of tolerance around the world. Featuring the lyrics of John Lennon’s iconic song and illustrations by the award-winning artist Jean Jullien, this poignant and timely picture book dares to imagine a world at peace. This book is published in partnership with the human rights organization Amnesty International.
  • Winnie’s Great War by Lindsay Mattick & Josh Greenhut. Here is a heartwarming imagining of the real journey undertaken by the extraordinary bear who inspired Winnie-the-Pooh. From her early days with her mama in the Canadian forest, to her remarkable travels with the Veterinary Corps across the country and overseas, and all the way to the London Zoo where she met Christopher Robin Milne and inspired the creation of the world’s most famous bear, Winnie is on a great war adventure. This beautifully told story is a triumphant blending of deep research and magnificent imagination. Infused with Sophie Blackall’s irresistible renderings of an endearing bear, the book is also woven through with entries from Captain Harry Colebourn’s real wartime diaries and contains a selection of artifacts from the Colebourn Family Archives. The result is a one-of-a-kind exploration into the realities of war, the meaning of courage, and the indelible power of friendship, all told through the historic adventures of one extraordinary bear.

NOVEMBER BOOKS: November in Canada is on the cusp of fall and winter. Northern and (some) southern parts of the country will have snow, and temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night. There might be rain to contend with, but as temperatures drop, rain becomes snow. Beautiful fall colors can still be seen in southern areas early in the month. 

  • How Do Apples Grow by Betsy Maestro. Read and find out about how apples grow in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book. This is a clear and appealing environmental science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. Questions addressed in this book include:
    • Did you know that when you bite into an apple, you’re eating part of a flower?
    • Why do apple trees need bees to make apples?
    • How does the tree feed the growing apples and make them ready to eat?
  • Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Lois Ehlert. This book blends bold graphics, vibrant colors, and precise details in her watercolor collage alongside found objects like seeds, fabric, wire, and roots. A special glossary explains how roots absorb nutrients, what photosynthesis is, how sap circulates, how to make a bird treat, and other facts about trees. Children and adults will feel inspired to take a closer look at nature in their own backyards.
  • Calendar Mystery – November Night by Ron Roy. November is for Night…It’s November, and there’s a new mystery to solve. ‘The twins’ new neighbors are up to something! It’s Thanksgiving, and a mysterious couple has moved in next door. Bradley, Brian, Nate, and Lucy must work out the clues: The neighbors have built a tall wooden fence. They’ve bought some strange parts for making . . . something. They’ve even put up a suspicious tent in their backyard, with a big, scary dog to guard it. What could they possibly be hiding?
  • In November by Cynthia Rylant. In November, the air grows cold and the earth and all of its creatures prepare for winter. Animals seek food and shelter. And people gather together to celebrate their blessings with family and friends. Cynthia Rylant’s lyrical language and Jill Kastner’s rich, cozy paintings capture the cherished moments of this autumn month–the moments we spend together and the ones we witness in the world around us.
  • Chipmunk at Holly Tree Lane by Victoria Sherrow. Winter is near, and Chipmunk is scampering around gathering as many nuts and seeds as possible to take back to her burrow for the long hibernation. Follow Chipmunk as she fends off competitors and prepares for the long, cold winter. Reviewed by the Smithsonian Institution for accuracy, Chipmunk at Hollow Tree Lane is a fun and informative story with beautifully detailed illustrations. Watch your children have a blast reading and learning about the animals that live in a Canadian backyard!
  • Owls by Gail Gibbons. With their striking appearance and distinctive hoot, hoot, owls are one of the most recognizable birds in the world.  But did you know there are more than 140 types of owls living in the world? Gail Gibbons’ Owls celebrates the similarities and differences in the many species of owls, from large to small, living in diverse environments and making many different kinds of nests.  The book covers basics of owl behavior, information on how they hunt, and the many factors that have led some types of owls to become endangered. The boldly colored illustrations feature clear labeling, and all new words are defined and reinforced with clear, simple language, appropriate for young readers.  The book also features a page of intriguing owl trivia.
  • Hibernation Station by Michelle Meadows. Everybody at the station! It’s time for winter hibernation! The sweet rhyming text of this book will calm even the most rambunctious kids and have them dreaming about what it’s like to hibernate. Young readers will be soothed and delighted as this story introduces them to different types of hibernating animals. The creatures on the train are preparing to snuggle into sleep, although with a passenger list that includes chipmunks, bears, snakes, hedgehogs, groundhogs, frogs, turtles, mice, bats, and more, there’s a lot of noise! Will the hibernating critters ever get to sleep? Take a trip to Hibernation Station to find out!
  • Hibernation by Tori Kosara. Learn all about animals and what they do during the winter! During the cold winter months, some animals go into a deep sleep called hibernation. You’d be surprised to learn about all of the other animals that hibernate besides bears, like squirrels, woodchucks, chipmunks and bats. Children will learn how an animal prepares for hibernation by stuffing itself with food so that it can survive in its dormant months and how animals prepare safe spots, like dens and burrows, so that they will be protected from predators as they sleep.
  • The Animals Winter Sleep by Lynda Graham-Baker. Taking nonfiction into the realm of bedtime read-to-me stories, this rich, melodic text paired with detailed color pencil illustrations describes how 13 North American animal species—such as black bear, ermine, pileated woodpecker, porcupine, river otter, and ruffed grouse—survive harsh winter snows snug inside their dens, nests, burrows, and lodges. Additional information, geared to very young children, includes animal winter survival adaptations, such as the foods they eat, nesting materials, camouflage, and predator survival along with a series of questions that encourage children to look back at the illustrations for clues. A line art diagram of the final panorama illustration that identifies the location of all 13 animal species is also included.

SONGS: When music is taught in schools, it improves the cognitive ability of kids and helps them to become better learners.

Download this chart at benefits-of-music-education.com.

NOVEMBER:

PERSONAL NARRATIVE:

REMEMBRANCE DAY:

KINDNESS:

2. Create together: Puzzles, Crafts, Drawing and Constructing 🧩 

Remembrance Day Activities: Remembrance Day is observed on November 11, 2023. It is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth countries since the end of World War I to remember the members of their armed forces who died in the line of duty. Remembrance Day is observed to recall the end of hostilities of World War I on that date in 1918. Hostilities formally ended “at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month”. In accordance with the Armistice, the Treaty of Versailles was signed on 28 June 1919. 

Remembrance Day art ideas, writing freebie and clipart. Kindergarten to Grade 3. #gradeonederful #remembranceday #remembrancedaycraft #remembrancedayart
  • Read Sadako’s Cranes by Judith Loske. Sadako, lived in Hiroshima when the atomic bomb was dropped. She hears of a legend which says that folding 1,000 paper cranes grants a wish.

Healthyhappyimpactful.com

Kindness: Being kind is one of the most critical skills that people need to know because it makes the best first impression and shows emotional intelligence. It helps in personal and professional settings, and lets people know that you care about them as human beings, not just about what you need from them. However, kindness is something that needs to be learned and seen, it does not just happen naturally. The following activities for students are great ways to get kids started with killing people with kindness and start with social-emotional learning in the elementary classroom. Kindness is an important social skill that plays a huge role in creating a positive learning environment for all. When we have kinder students, kids are better able to work together, share, express differing opinions in respectful ways, and help each other when someone is in need.

  • Kindness can be learned and taught. While the journey is not always easy, we can all take steps to help create a better world.
    • Teaching kindness is good for the body and good for the mind. Studies have shown that kindness increases feelings of gratitude.
    • Children learn to appreciate what they have when helping those less fortunate.
    • Kindness also allows for better concentration and focus skills and improved results.
    • Kindness is a key ingredient that helps children feel good about themselves and about others.
  • After reading the recommended kindness books, download these Kindness Discussion Questions.
    • How did a character in the story show kindness?
      • Can being kind make a difference in the world? How?
      • Let’s brainstorm an act of kindness we can do together this week.
      • Has anyone ever done an act of kindness for you?
      • How do you think a person feels when someone does something kind for him/her?
      • Can kindness be contagious? Why or why not?
  • Teach “T.H.I.N.K.” which means before you say anything, you should ask yourself if what you’re about to say is: True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary and Kind.
  • Read We’re All Wonders and then talk about differences – One of the most effective kindness activities for kids is discussing diversity and more importantly inclusivity in an open and honest manner. While you should focus on similarities, it’s essential to acknowledge differences exist. Explain what you can. If a question stumps you, research it in real-time. Admitting you don’t know everything models a growth mindset. Discuss what we should do or say if we notice someone different than us and give kids the opportunity to ask you questions in a safe space.
  • Read Each Kindness OR I walk with Kindness – a Story about a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoet and then teach Children about Bullying: For something to be classified as bullying, it must be repeated, intentional, and have a power imbalance of some kind. Kids should learn the signs of bullying, when and how to intervene, and the causes of bullying behavior. Learning about the root causes of bullying behavior can help kids choose the kindest routes. Knowing and understanding people, who exhibit these behaviors, are most likely in pain may help stop negative reactions and, instead, find productive ways to use that energy.
  • Read Try a Little Kindness and then ask students to decide as a class what kindness looks like and how they can show kindness to others. Not only does this start the conversation around being kind, but it also teaches them to work together, communicate their thoughts, and express responses to others’ thoughts. Write down their responses which can be used as a classroom chart (or anchor chart) throughout the year.
    • Discuss 20 Ways Kids Can be Kind
  • Download these Kindness Discussion Starters. 
    • Types of kindness question cards included:
      • The Red Cards are about kindness in general.
      • The Orange Cards focus on how to be a better friend.
      • The Yellow Cards help our kids understand the importance of being mindful of others.
      • The Green Cards target ways to be more helpful.
      • And the Blue Cards talk about how to be an “includer”.
  • Download this writing activity: Acts of Kindness 1 OR Acts of Kindness Notes OR Kind Words.
  • Download these Kindness Notes.
  • Download this set of Social Stories posters about Being Kind.
  • Read When we are Kind and start by discussing what it means to be kind. Kindness can mean many different things. Sometimes, it is doing something kind for someone else. Sometimes, it is treating someone the way they want to be treated in the moment. Other times, it is doing our part to clean up and take care of the environment. Kindness is even about being loving and being thoughtful to ourselves. Encourage students to come up with a list of ways to be kind. This can be done as a whole group or in small groups. You can even make it a challenge to come up with the biggest list of kind acts before reporting back to the whole class.
  • Discuss the chart below OR download this I Can Show Kindness Activity. Kindness is a virtue that defines a person overall. Sing the songs, read the books and do the activities to promote this positive attribute. An act of kindness can help someone in dire need and inspire them to do the same. Teaching the significance of kindness in the formative years will make the good Samaritans for tomorrow. It also makes children compassionate and considerate towards others’ needs. 

Pathway2success.com

  • Download this Random Act of Kindness Calendar – children will be reminded of different ways to be Kind.
  • Supporting your child at school when they are teased.
  • Download How to Respond when children use bad language.
  • Start a Compliment Box in your classroom or at home. Keep the compliments flowing with a compliment box being a permanent fixture in the classroom. Students can write compliments on slips of paper and put them into the box, and then at a certain point in time, teachers can pass them out to the recipients.
    • Download these Compliment Card Starters.
    • Have students demonstrate kindness by creating a gift box for someone special in their life. They can make crafts or bring stuff to put in the box, and this printout can go on the box to let the recipient know that they are appreciated.
    • Kindness is typically thought about happening between two or more people, but it is also important to be kind to yourself. This lesson plan walks through the importance of self-kindness using a PowerPoint and guided meditation. If interested, sign up with the School of Kindness for elementary-aged student lesson plans and a PPT.
    • Download this Kindness Scavenger Hunt for children to find new ideas and enjoy.

allmychildrendaycare.com

FALL ACTIVITIES: Do you love the crisp autumn season and all the great fall activities too? There are many fun Fall activities for kids – both indoors & outdoors. Plan your new fall adventures with Autumn activities your kids can look forward to every year.

November Poem – Download the poster.

November – download the poster

EventGreetings.com

3. Explore, Engage & Interact together 🌍

Kindness Activities:

  • Coloring pages with kindness affirmations is an enjoyable way of teaching children about kindness – (scroll down and click on ones of your choice).They are creative and fun, and you can pin them up afterward as a colorful reminder. Younger children can color pages of kind acts which are relatable and practical.
  • Kindness bookmarks are great for your family to read aloud and make thoughtful gifts. You can add pressed flowers and leaves and laminate them or use contact glue. Your kids can even keep a stash of bookmarks in the car, leave some at the library, or hand them out at the park.
  • You can have a kindness calendar for each month or choose a couple of months of the year. Pick a different act of kindness for each day of the month. They can be small things that each member of the family can complete on their own or they can be bigger family projects. Download and have children complete a Kindness Calendar.
  • Writing activity? Download this Kindness Action Poster for kids to complete.
  • Hand out strips of paper to students where they can write down ideas on how to be kind to others, the environment, and/or animals. The class can share why they chose these ideas and then form them into a paper chain to display as a reminder. This is a favorite kindness activity for kids to use in the classroom. 
kindness bingo

Bing.com

REMEMBRANCE DAY ACTIVITIES:

FALL ACTIVITIES: 

4. Healthy Living: Movement & Nutrition 👭

MOVEMENT: Brain breaks are simple and quick activities that can help to recharge the brain. They can be done before, during, or after lessons (or any time learners need to “wake up” their brains). This can lead to better concentration, which helps kids learn.

Eatmovepraylove.com

NUTRITION: What better time than Fall to spend time with your children in the kitchen making some of the following tasty treats.

  • Download the recipe for Cinnamon Leaf Cookie. Children will enjoy creating these masterpieces for Fall.

Read Hibernation Station and then make these Bear Snacks.

5. Reflect: Thoughts of the Day about Learning 💭

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Pinterest.ca

AUTUMN

Poemsearcher.com

KINDNESS: