Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun

I discovered another wonderful new book this year, Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun by Maria Dismondy.

The illustrations in this book are beautiful and lay the foundation for the loving story.  

This book tells the story of Lucy and Ralph.  Lucy is a unique little girl who likes different foods, like toast smeared with ketchup and spaghetti in a hot dog bun.  As a result, Ralph singles her out and teases her.  Lucy's Papa Gino reminds her that everyone has a heart with feelings, but Lucy isn't so sure.  The bullying continues until Ralph has trouble at recess one day.  Will Lucy help him?  Grab this beautifully illustrated book to find out!

The author, Maria Dismondy, has a wonderful Website that has numerous activities which can be used for lessons and enrichment. 

I used two of her activities during my counselor lessons.

For this activity, students are asked to write about a time that they showed courage.  Since writing is an academic focus, it is important for students to practice this skill whenever possible.  

Students were also given the attached bookmark to color.  Since counselor lesson is right after library check-out, these bookmarks can be immediately used.

Have a great week!

Mrs. Muller

The Sneetches!

The Sneetches is a simple story that has a very strong message about excluding others.  Breaking away from my usual practice, I am reading this book with all of my classes (even 5th grade) during this month's counselor rotation.  After reading, we discuss how unfair it would be if I only played with kids who look like me or only made friends with people who have the same hair or skin color.  We also discuss how they feel when they're left out of a group because their clothes are different or they wear glasses (Yes...These things unfortunately happen!). I have wonderful discussions with the classes, even the younger kids.   

After reading, I gave each student a large star on construction and asked them to identify ways that each of them is special.  Some of the first graders liked them so much that they've taped them to the backs of their chairs.  See pictures below!

Have a great week!

Bullying (BOOOO!)

I have been talking to 3rd and 5th grade students about bullying.  I believe that we need to provide a safe way for students to report bullying.  I also think that we need to educate the witnesses about their role in bullying and what they can do to stop it.  I created a BULLY REPORT FORM for students to use when they wish to report bullying-whether they are the victim or a witness.  I have repeatedly told students that their reports will be anonymous.

When students would like to report bullying, they are asked to put it in my 'Bully Bowl' so that it doesn't get lost in paper shuffle that is my desk (sometimes anyway!).


Have a great week!