Definition:

Courage is being willing to face something hard or scary, like trying to do something you’ve never done before. 

In short:

Do good, try hard even when it’s scary.

Summary:
The subtitle of this book is “A Book of Resilience.” Young readers won’t know what the word “resilience” means but they do understand what it means to be scared and in need of courage at times. The story begins with a  child riding a bike through a dark forest, in windy weather, over a bridge, and past a scary barking dog. The boy’s encouraging thoughts help him keep going in spite of the challenges he faces. Words like  “Yes, I can,” and “I can feel scared but still carry on,” silently and powerfully give him the strength to persevere. He knows he can get up after falling, ask for help when he needs it, talk about his struggles with good friends, and help others when they need it. Background music in the Youtube video version, lovely illustrations, and relatable advice make this story extra special!  

Lesson Objectives: 

1. Students will demonstrate more understanding of positive self-talk, the kind needed when facing a challenge. 
2. Teachers can help students practice using the inner voice that is positive and reassuring through an activity of acting out scenarios, similar to the ones in the story.  

Guiding Questions: 

1. Resilience (a word in the title) means to find the strength to do things that are difficult. What difficulties does the boy on the bike face in this story? 
2. He feels scared but still carries on. Can you share about a time when you were scared or nervous, but you didn’t give up? 
3. The boy encourages himself as he rides his bike. What are some of the things he says?
4. Do you talk to yourself the way the boy in the story does, using encouraging words to help you? If so, what do you tell yourself? 
5. When he fell off his bike, did he ask for help and did he get it? 
6. Do you like to help other people when they’re upset or scared? If so, share about a time when that happened. How did you help? 
7. How does the boy feel about talking about his difficulties? Are  you okay with talking about your problems with your family and/or friends?  
8. Why is it a good thing to talk with someone you trust, especially your parents, if you have some troubles? 
9. Practice saying with your parents, grandparents, or an older brother or sister: “We can all keep going. We are strong. We are capable. We are important. We are courage. And we are triumphant.” 
10. How did it make you feel when you said these sentences? If you don’t know, ask someone what the word “triumphant” means?