Proud to Be Me© Angela Maiers, Liberating Genius(shared by AKGTCanada with permission)

Objective:Identify the importance of “owning your own genius” using a book orpersonal story.

Background:A favorite story about uniqueness is “Only One You”by Linda Kranz It is a powerful story of letting one'sgenius shine, even if it is different from the norm. It is awonderful opportunity to discuss with students thebalance of “blending in and standing out” we needto find when we are finding our own way.

From the publisher:

“There's only one you in this great big world. Make it a better place. Adri's mama and papa share some of the wisdom they have gained through the years with their eager son. Their words, simple and powerful, are meant to comfort and guide him as he goes about exploring the world. This exquisitely illustrated book explodes with color and honest insights. Kranz's uniquely painted rockfish, set against vibrant blue seas, make an unforgettable and truly special impression. Only One You will inspire parents and children of all ages as they swim through life.”

MaterialsOnly One You (or another book with a similar theme; Stellaluna, The UglyDuckling and Amazing Grace are but a few); Chart paper

Lesson:Teacher: This is a story about what it means to be unique. (Feel free to letstudents share their ideas on what it means to be unique.)Then, read Only One You by Linda Kranz (or alternative book).

Lesson Activity: (~20 minutes)After reading the story, discuss with students:1. What makes a person stand out from other people?2. How can people stand out in a good way in the classroom? In thecafeteria? On the playground? At home?

Discuss how it might feel to perform standout behavior. Do you feel pride? Happiness? Satisfaction?

Using a large piece of butcher paper, create a heading:

Stand Out Behavior! We Sparkle and Shine.

Continue brainstorming ways people can stand out in a good way, andlist them on the chart.

Use the chart as a reference for modeling and encouraging standoutbehavior in the classroom, such as:

• Taking turns• Holding the door for others• Listening politely when someone is speaking• Following directions• Helping others• Sharing smiles with one another

Adri’s parents also share that you don’t have to follow the crowd. Use thiswisdom to discuss:

• What does it mean to follow the crowd?• When might it not be a good idea to follow the crowd? (When the

crowd is making bad choices or misbehaving, etc.)

Ask students to share instances of when they’ve made their own choices,without following the crowd.