It is natural for young children to notice differences. Names serve as a familiar starting point for students and educators to get to know each other and show respect. This lesson is a wonderful way to start the school year because it offers an opportunity to build classroom community by giving students a chance to share and learn about each other’s names they want to be called.
Reading the book The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi as a class provides a wonderful opportunity to discuss ally behavior and community support with students. One of the learning objectives of this lesson is to teach children to accept and embrace the many ways students may choose to be addressed.
This resource is great for your summer reading lists. Learn more about summer reading here.
