Everyone Belongs by Heather Avis is a children’s picture book, illustrated by Sarah Mensinga, that promotes inclusion and celebrates differences through the story of two sisters, Macy and Tru, who host a talent show and find a way for every child to participate and shine. The book encourages children to value all people and make room for unique abilities, emphasizing that life is brighter when everyone is included.
Discussion Questions
Understanding Differences and Abilities
- In the book, we see people who move, communicate, or learn in different ways. What are some different abilities you noticed?
- What does the word “disability” mean to you? How is it different from what a person can do?
- Can someone need help with one thing and still be really good at something else? Can you think of examples?
- Why is it important to focus on what people can do, not just what might be harder for them?
- What are some things you are really good at? What are some things that are harder for you?
Disability vs. Ability
- The book reminds us that having a disability does not mean someone can’t belong. What does that tell us?
- How can focusing only on what someone can’t do make them feel?
- Why is it important to notice what people can do instead?
- How can we talk about differences in a kind and respectful way?
- What would you want others to remember about you if something was hard for you?
Belonging and Acceptance
- The title is Everyone Belongs. What does belonging feel like? What does belonging look like at school?
- Have you ever felt left out? What helped you feel included again?
- What are some ways we can help others feel like they belong at school?
- Why is it important that everyone is welcomed, even if they seem different from us?
- How do our words and actions show others that they belong?
Kindness in Action
- What are some examples of kindness you noticed in the book?
- How can small acts of kindness make a big difference?
- What does kindness look like when someone needs extra help?
- How can we be kind without making someone feel uncomfortable or embarrassed?
- How do you feel when someone is kind to you?
Including Others
- What are some ways we can include someone in a game or activity?
- If a classmate does things differently, how can we make sure they can still participate?
- Why is it important to ask someone what help they want instead of guessing?
- How can working together help everyone succeed?
- What is one thing you can do this week to help make your classroom more inclusive?
Activities
- Draw a picture of a place where everyone belongs. What makes it inclusive?
- Together, write a class agreement. What rules can we create to make sure everyone feels welcome?
- “Can Everyone Access This?” Classroom Walkthrough
- What to do:
- As a class, walk through your classroom, hallway, library, cafeteria, or playground
- Ask students to look at the space through different lenses:
- Someone who uses a wheelchair
- Someone who needs a quiet space
- Someone who needs visual supports
- Someone who needs help opening doors or reaching materials
- Discussion prompts:
- What parts of this space are easy to use for everyone?
- What might be hard for someone people?
- What changes could make this space more inclusive?
- What to do: