I Am Tolerant

Sarah L. Schuette's "Character Values" offers a straightforward and accessible approach to teaching essential social and emotional concepts to young readers. The book presents various positive character values, such as kindness, honesty, and teamwork, through simple, relatable everyday examples. It doesn't delve into complex narratives but rather focuses on clear illustrations and easy-to-read text to convey each value effectively. The book handles sensitive topics by emphasizing positive behaviors and their benefits, rather than exploring negative actions or their consequences in depth. It's a prescriptive and encouraging read, designed to build a child's understanding of what good character looks like. The emotional arc is consistently gentle and uplifting, aiming to empower children with the knowledge and confidence to exhibit these values. This book is ideal for children aged 4-11, particularly those who are beginning to navigate social situations, or for parents and educators seeking explicit resources for character education. A parent might reach for this book when they want to proactively introduce or reinforce specific values, discuss social skills, or provide a foundation for ethical behavior. There's minimal preparation needed for parents, though having follow-up questions ready to connect the book's examples to the child's real-life experiences would enhance its impact. Younger children (4-6) will benefit from the clear visuals and simple language during read-alouds, grasping the basic concepts of each value. Older children (7-11) can read independently, reflecting more deeply on the examples and applying the concepts to their own friendships and school interactions. What sets this book apart is its direct, educational focus, aligning with Core Knowledge recommendations for social and emotional development. It serves as a practical tool for teaching specific values, making it a solid addition to any character education curriculum or home library.