How could I use Helen Lester’s books in my classroom?

• Every classroom has its share of behavior problems. With the use of Helen Lester’s books a teacher would be able to bring up the subject of behavior by reading one of the many books available. Students would be able to compare their own behaviors to those of the characters featured in any of the books. When used in the correct manner these books can be a great resource for any classroom.
   

• The following classroom activity is to be used with the book, It Wasn’t My Fault. After reading as a class have students act out the story allowing them to take animal roles. Then brainstorm another similar real-life situation and role play how we blame others. Discuss more positive ways of dealing with these situations.
   

• The following classroom activity is to be used with the book, A Porcupine Named Fluffy. Have students make up their own books based on A Porcupine Named Fluffy. This activity works especially well when working with a unit on synonyms and antonyms. Start by having students choose an animal. Then, have students list all the words that describe that animal. Next, have students choose one word from their list and have them write the antonym for that word. The students now have a title for the book they will create.
   

• The following classroom activity is to be used with the book Hooway for Wodney Wat. After reading the story as a class, have students write a book review. In the book review students should identify the following: plot, main character, main adversary, setting, and style. An example of student responses can be found here (a Word 2002 document). A full review summary can be found here (a Word 2002 document).
   

• After reading Helen Lester’s books it would be tons of fun for students to write to her. Have them write about their favorite book or tell about a favorite character. She does a really nice job getting back to those who write her!
   

• Additional learning activities can be found at Education Place and I Love That Teaching Idea.

How could I use Helen Lester’s books at home?

• Reading these stories with your children sets up the perfect opportunity to talk about behavior. Maybe your child is having a hard time at school or at home. Reading these books brings up many different topics and can set a non-threatening mood to the conversation. Hopefully the child will feel more comfortable sharing how they feel after they hear the stories and see how they compare to the characters.

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