Product Description
Words Are Not for Hurting (Ages 4-7) (Best Behavior Series) Paperback – April 15, 2004
by Elizabeth Verdick (Author), Marieka Heinlen (Illustrator)
The older children get, the more words they know and can use—including hurtful words. This book teaches children that their words belong to them: They can think before they speak, then choose what to say and how to say it. It also explores positive ways to respond when others use unkind words and reinforces the importance of saying “I’m sorry.” Includes tips for parents and caregivers.
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2–This cheerful, instructive title highlights the power of words. The focus is on children taking personal responsibility for what they say, as well as thinking before speaking. Communication skills that promote friendship and other key social skills are encouraged. Bright, colorful illustrations convey the messages well via body language and facial expression. Examples expose the negative impact caused by the use of hurtful words and the effective use of the simple, powerful phrase, "I'm sorry." Also included are steps for adults and children to take to get help with a serious problem, such as abuse. This title is similar in scope to Lauren Murphy Payne and Claudia Rohling's We Can Get Along (Free Spirit, 1997), but encompasses a broader range of relationships, along with activity and discussion suggestions for involved adults.–Sharon A. Neal, Immaculata University, PA
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From Booklist
PreS. Before addressing the topic of the power of language, Verdick helps preschoolers focus on the fun of it, with words that are super short, really long, or just plain silly. She reminds young children that their words belong to them; they choose what to say and how to say it. She uses examples to help preschoolers understand how words can be helpful ("Let's work together") or hurtful ("You're stupid"), and she explores the feelings that result after hearing unkind words. She also explains how to take back hateful words by saying "I'm sorry," and what children can do when they hear something cruel being said. The brightly colored drawings, which bring the minimal text to life, are especially effective at showing the range of emotions children experience when they hear unkind language. An excellent resource for sharing at home and at preschools, this title closes with activities and discussion starters for adults to use with young children. Karen Hutt
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Review
“This cheerful, instructive title highlights the power of words.”—School Library Journal
“This is a must-have for every home and classroom. The author shares some excellent tips and ideas of how to further educate your child about the power of their words.”—Chasing Supermom blog
About the Author
Elizabeth Verdick is a children's book writer and editor. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and their two children. Marieka Heinlen launched her career as a children’s book illustrator with the award-winning Hands Are Not for Hitting. As a freelance illustrator and designer, Marieka focuses her work on books and other materials for children, teens, parents, and teachers. She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with her husband and son.
Product details
Publisher : Free S. Publishing; Ages 4-7, Paperback edition (April 15, 2004)
Language : English
Paperback : 40 pages
ISBN-10 : 1575421569
ISBN-13 : 978-1575421568
Reading age : 4 - 7 years
Lexile measure : AD450L
Item Weight : 6.4 ounces
Dimensions : 9 x 0.16 x 9 inches
