Taco Falls Apart by Brenda S. Miles is a fun picture book that uses a taco as a relatable character to teach readers about self-talk, emotions, and resilience. Taco feels pressure to be the “perfect taco” and starts worrying that he isn’t good enough. As his negative thoughts grow, he literally begins to crack and fall apart. With help, Taco learns that the way we think affects how we feel and act, and that challenging unhelpful thoughts can help us feel more confident and capable.
Discussion Questions
Before Reading
- Looking at the cover, what do you think this story might be about?
- What do you think it means to “fall apart”?
- Have you ever felt nervous or worried about something?
During or After Reading
- Why did Taco start feeling stressed and worried?
- What kinds of thoughts was Taco having?
- How did Taco’s thoughts affect his feelings and actions?
- What happened when Taco focused on negative thoughts?
- Have you ever had a thought that made you feel nervous or upset?What are some ways Taco could have talked to himself more kindly?Who helped Taco when he was struggling?Why is it important to ask for help when we need it?
Making Connections and Exploring the Theme
- Can you think of a time when you were worried about making a mistake?
- What do you do when you start feeling overwhelmed?
- Who are the people you can talk to when you’re having a hard day?
- How can you help a friend who seems worried or upset?
- What are some encouraging things you can say to yourself when something feels difficult?
- Do you think our thoughts can change how we feel? Why or why not?
- What is the difference between a helpful thought and an unhelpful thought?
- What are some examples of positive self-talk?
- Why is it important to be kind to yourself?
- What can we learn from Taco’s experience?
Activity
The author introduces this activity at approximately 4:55 in the video below.
Preparation:
- Create a large taco using cardboard or poster board.
- Cut colored paper into small slips for students to write on.
Instructions for Students:
- Today, we’re going to fill our taco with thoughts.
- Sometimes our brains tell us things that are unfair, unhelpful, or not completely true. When you notice one of those thoughts, write it down, crumple up the paper, and toss it into the taco.
- Example: “I’m terrible at soccer.”
- Next, let’s challenge that thought. Can you replace it with something more accurate, helpful, or encouraging?
- Example: “I helped my teammate score a goal at last week’s game, and I’m continuing to improve.”
- Every time you catch yourself thinking something negative or inaccurate, practice replacing it with a thought that is more balanced and supportive.
- Remember, everyone has unhelpful thoughts sometimes. The goal is not to ignore them, but to recognize them and reframe them in a healthier way.
Discussion Questions:
- How did it feel to write down and throw away an unhelpful thought?
- Was it easy or difficult to come up with a more helpful replacement thought?
- Why do you think our brains sometimes focus on negative thoughts?
- How can changing our thoughts affect the way we feel or act?
- What is one positive thought you can remind yourself of this week?