How I became brave

Mervi Juusola 2018: Kuinka minusta tuli rohkea
Illustrated by Anni Nykänen

Tilda and Sisu, sister and brother, have moved. In the new school and kindergarten they have to find their place.They teach us how to be brave, be good enough just the way you are.

The book includes short stories of Tilda and Sisu and then small tasks: what is your superpower, how to deal with bullying and how to hold one's ground without being mean or violent.

There has been a lot of talk about bullying among kids and young (and not enough talk about bullying among adults). All adults should read this book. I am so glad the kids are learning these emotional and social skills early on.  The message in this book is that when some one bullies you, it is not your fault, it is theirs. This seems to be forgotten in most cases

Are you the champion in friendlyness?

It is really hard to change other people, but we can all be friendlier. Just like this book suggests:
- Smile
- Look people in the eye
- Hug a family member every day
- Congratulate when someone succeeds
- Give compliments
- Ask those who are alone to join what you are doing
- Help the elderly
- Greet people in school/day care (it is amazing how many adults forget to do this at work!)
- donate unused toys, clothing to charity

Emotion cards

Enough and to spare

Illustrated by Annastiina Syväjärvi 2012: Yllinkyllin
text by Johanna Venho

Little girl named Kylli is moving. She finds a catalog that has a picture of a pink toy pony. She wants it and she wants it bad.  Her mother is telling her that she can't have everything she wants. But Kylli's Mother's actions tell otherwise: she is complaining about the old couch, wanting  a new one and she has plenty of unnecessary things.

Kylli goes to play outside and finds a new friend and the pink pony is forgotten.





Colorfully illustrated, very educational story about too much stuff and how adults are sending mixed messages to children. After all what is the most important thing in children's lives or for adults for that matter?