Esther Was Brave and We Can Be Brave ,Too!

During our morning circle we read Fun With Jewish Holiday Rhymes. After I finished reading the rhyme "Shushan Town", I asked the children, "How did Esther show us she was brave? Aaron said, "Because Esther went to the King and told him of Haman's evil plan. She took a stand like One did when he stood up to Red; when Red was bulling the other colors." I asked the group, "Was Haman a bully too? Mia chimed in with, "Yes he was, and Esther and Mordechai took a stand with Haman, and they saved all the Jews."

Melissa and I went on to talk to the children about how we all have the power to take a stand everyday in our own lives, if we are not happy with the way others are treating us. One person can make a difference! We pointed to the five problem solving strategies we have posted in the classroom and asked the children "Which strategy would you use first if someone is treating you unfairly or disrespectfully?" In unison the children put one hand up and out in front of them, opened their hand, and shouted STOP!"