Grades K - 5. The qualities of good character are timeless and important in developing good citizens within our schools. Each unit provides a month's worth of interactive lessons that incorporate language arts, mathematics, and creative arts. Lessons also integrate fiction and non-fiction children's books. Units encourage self-expression and are ideal for guidance time or after school programs. Based on National Reading and National Mathematics standards.

Book Titles Included:

 

 

A Year Without Dad

by Jodi Brunson

This book helps children understand military separation from a parent. Through the story of Ryan, and his sister, Anna, they learn how to deal with their father being gone and anticipating his return. The value of keeping busy is stressed, as well as the importance of staying in touch and communicating with the parent who is away. The story teaches children how to adapt, and also that the time of separation is not necessarily a bad thing -- the missing parent is away because he or she is doing something important and worthwhile -- serving the country. The child gets the chance to grow and learn and take on more responsibility, with the ability to emulate the parent, but also to practice and build on the things he has been taught. 40 pages.

 

 

Ned and the General: A Lesson About Deployment

by Ron Madison

A well written book on a subject that is very timely. An excellent book for children, families and friends, where deployment has affected their lives. This book helps children understand the military and the uncertainties of deployment with rhyming stories about Ned and his friends, and how they cope with a parent being gone. The General reminds them of the great service their parents are providing and he helps them to understand. 24 pages.

 

 

The Friend

by Sarah Stewart

Lucky for Belle, she has a friend at home, a caregiver named Beatrice Smith (Bea) who keeps a close eye on her so she doesn't get into too much mischief. Through the week Belle helps Bea as she does chores or shops or bakes, and at the end of most days they head to the beach. Belle and Bea, hand in hand, by the sea. But one afternoon Belle sneaks outside to play all alone, and something happens that changes her life forever.

A lyrical rhymed text and pictures that pack emotion combine to present powerful portraits of a girl and her loving guardian.48 pages.

When Dad's at Sea

by Mindy L. Pelton

 

Emily's dad is in the military and sometimes he has to leave for months at a time. Emily knows her dad's job is important, but she doesn't want him to leave! Her dad tells her how he copes with his sadness, and he even makes her a paper chain to count down the days of his trip.

Still, Emily is very sad when he leaves. But as each day goes by, it begins to get a little bit easier. Her mom is there to help, and with each link Emily takes down from the paper chain, she is one day closer to her dad's return. When she makes a friend whose dad has also shipped out, she realizes that she is not the only one who feels the way she does. They count down the days together and celebrate their fathers' return. 32 pages.