Community Building Theme Based Posters

Role-playing is a tested and effective method for developing empathy and expressing new ideas. As with the storyboards, The Being Buddies illustrated theme-based posters can be used for script development.  Children contemplate communication options using theme-based posters. Children are encouraged to imagine and express the thoughts and feelings of diverse characters in reference to a poster theme. 

Four basic styles of "buddies" are represented by the animals.  While considering the character styles of each animal, students are encouraged to "script" and dramatize.  This process cultivates empathy as students practice considering various points of view.  Children learn about the styles of others and expand their range of responses to use in real life situations based on options developed by peers.  Appreciation of diversity in types of behavioral styles is reinforced by the insights of children. 

Free B&W downloads of these original posters are now available in 8.5"x11" with the blue link above or from the dropdown POSTERS menu.  Posters may be enlarged for personal use, of course, and even laminated.  BUT NOT SOLD. When the posters are laminated, the coloring and writing on them, with markers of any kind can be removed with a baking soda and water paste. 
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The pilot posters, included as a part of the Being Buddies Program were developed in Ithaca, NY for Beverly J. Martin Elementary School, with the support of Ms. Millicent Clarke-Maynard under an IPEI teacher's grant. 
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(Thank you to Ithaca Public Education Initiative- Character Counts with Thob and Thobina-2010)

Diversity

 ​Diversity is everywhere and we are enriched by our differences.   We all have strengths and weaknesses.  As individuals we not only look differently from one another but we have different ways of looking at the world, as well.
In order to create the peace that we all desire with those around us it is critical that children are taught that it is important to include those who are different...in looks and in style.

Respect

All differences aside, we are equal in value.   We each deserve understanding and to be treated fairly.  When we can't appreciate someone else we need to practice self control by speaking and behaving respectfully, regardless.  Learning about various cultures and belief systems, without judgement but appreciation, is a process.  Civil, respectful treatment of one another will foster the safe community we want to be a part of. 

Communication

How do we express ourselves? Through communication.  Perhaps we are attempting to reveal our thoughts and feelings.....or trying to understand someone else's point of view.   Often our timing, tone and body posture cause more reactivity than we realize.  Anticipating the styles of those we are interacting with can help conversations go more smoothly and increase the quality of our experiences.

Assertion

Assertion is the act of speaking up.   It's not the same as aggression which does not take relationships into account.  It's between submission and aggression on the behavior scale.  Rather than quiet submission and apology, assertion involves getting needs met in a confident way.  It requires speaking in a respectful manner to avoid aggressiveness and minimize any escalation of conflict.

The BeingBuddies.com store is opening this SUMMER: 
Empathy for Kids LLC will present the first in a series of Being Buddies 101 Activity Books.  The first in a series of color and laminated Being Buddies posters will also be available.  They will be similar to these original posters.   
 
MORE PRODUCTS THIS FALL:
​Products supporting the concepts and goals of Being Buddies will be available for the holidays:  Thob and Thobina books, die cut jigsaw puzzles, coloring b&w and large colorful posters, greeting cards, 2017 calendars, die cut stickers, bumper stickers, window decals, magnets, press tattoo designs and more items.  Thobin Things will be available at discounts for fundraising campaigns for PTAs and other youth support organizations.