Since We’re Friends, written by Celeste Shally, is the story of two boys – one of whom is a student with autism. Their relationship and the authentic ways they make their friendship work will help children better understand differences in the way we react to situations.
Discussion Questions
- What are some things the boys do to have fun together? Are those things you like to do?
- How does Matt’s friend help him when he gets upset?
- What bothers Matt? Loud noises, changes in routine, etc.
- How is the narrator a good friend to Matt?
- Can you be friends with someone who’s different from you?
- How could you help a classmate who becomes upset about something at school?
- What are some things you can do to include everyone?
Activities
- Create a Sensory Bottle
- Sensory bottles—often called calm‑down bottles—are clear, sealed containers filled with visually engaging items that float and move through liquid. Watching the contents move helps support visual tracking skills and can promote a sense of calm and focus.
- Materials Needed:
- Clear, smooth, durable plastic or glass bottles with secure lids
- Water
- Clear glue or baby oil
- Glitter, beads, sequins, water beads, or small waterproof toys
- Food coloring
- Instructions
- Make sure the bottle is clean and completely dry. If using plastic, choose a smooth bottle to allow for clear viewing.
- Fill the bottle about halfway with water. Add clear glue or baby oil to fill the remaining space, creating a slow‑moving mixture.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to achieve the desired color.
- Sprinkle in glitter or sequins for visual interest.
- Add beads, water beads, or small waterproof toys. Use items with different sizes, textures, and weights to create varied visual movement.
- Once the bottle is filled, secure the lid with strong glue to prevent spills or access to the contents.
- Shake the bottle gently to mix everything together.
- “How Can I Help?” Scenario: Discuss how the narrator helps Matt during basketball practice (e.g., showing him where to go) and brainstorm ways to support classmates who might struggle with directions or social cues.
- Find a New Friend: Encourage children to find a classmate they haven’t played with before—especially someone who may be different from them—and invite that peer to play. Partners should spend about five minutes together asking simple “get‑to‑know‑you” questions, such as favorite games, foods, or activities.
- At the end of the five minutes, bring the group back together and invite each pair to share one new thing they learned about their partner. Emphasize listening, kindness, and curiosity as ways to build new friendships and help everyone feel included