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Zoe the Misfit

Description

Zoe feels out of place, she's a green triangle in a world of red circles. The circles won't play with her because she is different and can't fit in with their rules. She's not round, she can't roll like they can and she s not red. Zoe tries to fit in, but try as she may she can't seem to roll, turn herself red or change her shape. Feeling left out and alone she is sitting on a park bench when she realizes that she has points and these allow her to do something that the circles can't, she can spin... While she is experimenting with her new found talent she discovers that there are lots of other shapes in the world and they all can do their own unique things... In the end she learns the most important rule is to be your self.

This fun story for kids helps them develop an appreciation for people s differences and helps children with self-esteem, confidence, overcoming fears, and learning to find value in themselves and their own abilities. Includes an afterward by Sasha J. Mudlaff M.A. for parents and caregivers which provides talking points and more information.

"We started the lesson by reading Zoe the Misfit, a story about a green triangle who feels like she doesn't fit in. 

Then, we talk about how sometimes we find friends by things that are the same about us (i.e. we both like to play tag). Students are then given a shape, but keep it turned down so no one else can see it. When everyone has a shape, the students look at what they have and have to find their shape group. Then, once the groups are made, students find their color group. We talk about how there are many different ways to make friends. 

We conclude by each student saying something they like and students who like the same thing stand up. This helps students connect with the rest of their class and create new friendships." - Elementary School Counseling.org Kindergarten lesson created by Bailey Parks 

Author's Notes

Zoe, The Misfit is frequently used in schools to teach kids self-esteem, respect, tolerance, skills for making new friends, as well as shapes and colors.

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