It's OK to be Different | My Healthy Body Booklist

It's Okay to be Different
A Picture Book on Diversity and Kindness

"It's Okay to be Different" is a children's picture book that emphasizes the importance of diversity and kindness. Written by Todd Parr, this engaging book uses simple language and colourful illustrations to convey a powerful message: being different is not only acceptable but something to celebrate. The narrative encourages children to embrace their unique traits and those of others, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding.

The book presents various scenarios where differences are highlighted, such as varying skin colors, abilities, and interests. Each page reinforces the idea that everyone has something special to offer, promoting empathy among young readers. The central theme revolves around kindness, urging children to befriend those who may seem different from themselves, thereby cultivating a sense of community and belonging.

Parr's approachable style makes complex concepts accessible to young audiences. The book serves as a valuable tool for parents and educators aiming to instil values of inclusivity and compassion in children. By encouraging discussions about diversity, "It's Okay to be Different" helps children appreciate the beauty in uniqueness while reinforcing the idea that kindness can bridge gaps between individuals from different backgrounds.

Author: Sharon Purtill

Sharon was a stay at home mom and entrepreneur when she stumbled into publishing in 1998. That year, along with her husband, she wrote and published her first book. That book’s success took them both by surprise when it went on to sell tens of thousands of copies right out of their garage. Today, Sharon is an award winning author who publishes in multiple genres under a couple of different pseudonyms. Her passion for writing, family and a positive life motivates her to create books that she hopes will enrich the lives of others. She hopes to one day escape the cold, and write from a tropical beach somewhere where her biggest concerns will be sand sticking to her suntan lotion and an empty margarita glass. But, for now, Sharon treasures the warm summer months and the time she gets to spend with family and friends in Ontario, Canada.

Book Details:

Publisher: Dunhill Clare Publishing
Format: Paperback
Print length: 29 pages
Dimensions: 216 x 216 x 2 mm
Reading age: 2-7 years old
Publication date: 14 Sept. 2019
ISBN: 9780973410457

Read alongside these topics:

How can "It's Okay to be Different" help in teaching the Y2 science topic "My Healthy Body"?

Integrating "It's Okay to be Different: A Children's Picture Book About Diversity and Kindness" into the Year 2 science topic "My Healthy Body" can enhance students' understanding of health by promoting values of diversity, kindness, and well-being. Here’s how the book can support this educational theme:

Promoting Emotional Health and Well-being

Understanding Diversity: The book emphasizes that everyone is unique, which can help children appreciate differences in their peers. Recognizing and respecting diversity contributes to a positive emotional environment, essential for mental health. This aligns with the science curriculum's focus on overall health, including emotional well-being.
Kindness and Relationships: Teaching kindness through the book can foster better relationships among students. Healthy social interactions are crucial for emotional health, which is a component of overall well-being.

Linking Physical Health to Emotional Well-being

Healthy Habits: The book can serve as a springboard to discuss how emotional health impacts physical health. For instance, children who feel accepted and valued are more likely to engage in healthy habits such as exercise and proper nutrition. This connection can be reinforced through discussions about how feeling good emotionally can motivate children to take care of their bodies.

Interactive Learning Activities

Discussion Prompts: After reading the book, teachers can facilitate discussions on how being kind and inclusive contributes to a healthy classroom environment. This could include activities where students share ways they can support each other in developing healthy habits.
Role-Playing Scenarios: Students could role-play scenarios from the book that illustrate kindness and acceptance, linking these behaviors to their own experiences with health and wellness.

Integration with Science Curriculum

Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Choices: The themes of diversity and kindness can be tied into lessons about healthy eating and lifestyle choices. For example, discussing how different cultures have various healthy foods can broaden students' perspectives on nutrition while reinforcing the idea that diversity enriches our lives.
Physical Activity: Encouraging students to engage in physical activities together promotes teamwork and cooperation, further enhancing their understanding of both physical health and social skills.

By combining the themes of "It's Okay to be Different" with the objectives of the "My Healthy Body" topic, educators can create a holistic learning experience that nurtures both the body and mind of Year 2 students.