Manners 2 stories.indd - Bitly

Help Me See and Do Story book

© Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac Illustrations and Design by Agnes De Bezenac

Help Me See and Do Story book

© Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

First Day in Class The school year had just begun. It was the first day of Mrs. Miller’s new class. “Good Morning, children! The theme of our first class this morning will be about Social Skills and what can we do to make others around us happy!” said Mrs. Miller. “But how can we do that?” asked Alisa. “It sounds so complicated. When I try to do nice things I just make a mess or end up making others mad at me.” “Well, Alisa, Social Skills is a big word for manners and behavior. But good manners doesn’t seem so complicated, does it?” “No, it doesn’t. I think I’d like to give it a try,” said Alisa. “But you know what? We’ll be doing this together and that’s a very important part of it. Because when one fails, the rest of us will be there to cheer him on, don’t you think?” Said Mrs. Miller. “Now class, who can think of different ways that we can put this into effect?” Everyone came up with good ideas such as, making cards for the sick children in class, going to visit the local Old Folks home to cheer them up, helping to keep the park clean and tidy, being sweet and friendly to any new comers in town, working on 4

SOCIAL SKILLS/LOVE © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

their table manners, being thankful for their belongings, saying “please” and “thank you” more often. There were so many things to do that they decided to each make a list of the 5 things they wanted to work on first. The kids spent the rest of their morning working on their little to-do lists and goals for learning better social skills. The next day in class Mrs. Miller could already see a change in the children’s behavior. They seemed happier, extra kind and polite. “It seems that I have a class of adults today.” She said as they all entered the room and sat quietly at their desks. “When I went to bed last night, I asked Jesus to help me be more appreciative of the things others do for me. But is that part of good social skills?” asked Belle. “Of course, my dear,” answered Mrs. Miller, “those are great ways to improve your social skills. It’s like you’re all building a tower of love and good manners. It’s growing and you’re working on it each day as you try to improve in these goals you just made. That’s just wonderful!”

My Prayer Jesus, please show me how I can do better in my manners and what things I need to learn, so that I can be more like You. Amen.

5 © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

Brian’s Little Lesson “Hi Brian.” said Dad as he passed in the hallway. Brian looked past his Dad and kept walking. He walked all the way down the hall and out the front door to play. Jenny, Gary and Frank called out to Brian. “Hey Brian, come and play with us.” Brian looked up and walked on by. He didn’t want to play with them. He kept walking down the street. Soon he passed Grandma Jenkins’ house. “Brian, would you like to come in and help me move the couch and have some cookies?” asked Grandma Jenkins. Brian looked at her a moment and walked on past. Grandma Jenkins just shook her head. Brian turned the corner. There was Dad driving by in the car. “Hey, Dad! Can you give me a ride home?” called out Brian. Dad didn’t stop. He drove on home. Brian ran all the way down the sidewalk calling to his dad. At last he ran up the path to the garage. “Dad, why didn’t you stop when I called you?” asked Brian. “Well, Brian, how did that make you feel?” asked Dad. “It made me feel sad. Like you don‘t want to be with me.” 6

RESPECT/POLITENESS © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

answered Brian. “Well, Brian, that’s how all of us feel when we ask you something and you don’t look at us and answer. I bet if you went back over your day, you’d see where you have left people hanging. Maybe you should go back and try again.” said Dad. Brian walked back to the park. He called to Jenny, Gary and Frank. “I’m sorry for not answering you when you called to me. Will you forgive me?” he asked. “Yes!” said the children. “Great! I’m on my way to Grandma Jenkins house to help her. Want to come with me?” Brian asked. The children skipped down the sidewalk and up to the front door.

“Grandma Jenkins, could we help move the couch for you?” asked Brian. “Why yes, of course.” said Grandma Jenkins. She set out milk and home-made cookies for each child. After moving the couch the four children sat down to enjoy the snack.

My Prayer Jesus, please help me to learn to love and respect others by looking at them and answering them when they speak to me. Amen.


Hideand-GoSeek It was spring time and every day this week was a rainy one. Kevin and Kayla couldn’t go out to play as much as they liked to as it was so muddy in the back yard. They were as bored as can be. “Let’s ask Jesus what we can do. He may have an idea,” suggested Kayla “Hey, that’s a great idea.” agreed Kevin. They prayed and asked Jesus what they could do. “That’s it,” said Kevin, “We can play hide-and-go-seek! “But we shouldn’t run in the house or be too noisy and disturb anyone.” said Kayla. “That’s true. It could be dangerous to hide in the kitchen and around the TV too. But we can play it a little differently this time. I’ll hide in the room while you close your eyes and count to 20. Then you can’t go looking for me. You’ll have to guess where I’m hiding, okay? If you get it right then I’ll bounce right out of the spot I’m hiding in. Got it?” he said. “Hey that sounds like fun. Let’s give it a try.” said Kayla. “But can I hide first?” “Sure. I’ll count,” Kevin answered, “but don’t peek!” Off Kayla went to hide, while Kevin began to count. “..18, 19, 20. Okay, here I come! Let’s see, are you behind the couch?” Kayla was quiet. “Then you must be behind the curtains.” But still no answer. After a few more guesses he began to get a little frustrated.

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THANKFULNESS/LOVE FOR THE LORD © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

That’s not fair. She picked a hard spot and she got to hide first. Where will I get to hide next? Hmmm, maybe I’d better ask Jesus to help me be more patient,” he thought. I’ll try a little longer. “Kayla, are you behind the door?” he asked. “Yes, you finally found me!” chirped Kayla. “Hey, that was a great hiding place, Kayla.” said Kevin. “Oh, you think so? That’s a sweet thing to say. I’m glad we’re having so much fun!” replied Kayla. “Now it’s my turn to hide.” said Kevin. Kayla closed her eyes and started counting. The children enjoyed the rest of the afternoon together. That night at dinner the two children told their mom and Dad how much fun they had. “That was such a fun idea, Kevin.” said Kayla. “Thanks, Kayla, I had fun too. But you know what? Jesus is the one Who gave me the idea when we prayed. It’s so much more fun when we play with our very best friend, Jesus, isn’t it?” “And I’m thankful for Jesus, who gives us all our many blessings and that we can still have fun even if we can’t go outside to play.” said Kayla.

My Prayer Jesus, please help me to be thankful for all the things you give me and for being my best and closest friend. Thank you for making our times of play so much fun. Amen. 9

A Cheery Morning Hello “Good Morning Sandy!” called mother, as she walked up the stairs to Sandy’s room. Sandy didn’t answer. A little while later Mother gave another happy good morning call as she opened the door and came near to Sandy’s bed. This time Sandy had to give an answer. But it was not met with another pleasant “Good Morning”, but with a grumpy moaning noise instead. “Yes, darling, it’s difficult to wake up sometimes, isn’t it? Are you still tired?” she asked. “No,” grumbled Sandy. Mother continued, “Then are you feeling sick?” “No, mom.” Sandy answered impatiently. “Then honey, what’s bothering you?” Sandy didn’t answer this time but instead hid under her covers with her teddy bear, only to make herself feel worse. Mother decided to leave Sandy alone a little while hoping that this “upset” feeling will just pass. While alone Sandy felt a sweet voice in her heart tell her, “It doesn’t make you feel good being this way. It doesn’t make mom and dad feel good either, so why not try just being happy and cheery when you wake up? It will brighten up your day and make you smile.” 10

CHEERFULNESS.HAPPINESS © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

Sandy lay there thinking about what she just felt the little voice telling her. “Yes, I do want to be happy, and of course I want dear mom and dad to feel happy too. Maybe I should just try to smile, even if I don’t feel like it. I’ll try to make it easy for someone else and see what happens. Okay, let’s give it a try, shall we?” Sandy said to her little teddy. “I feel better already,” thought Sandy to herself. “Now I want to show mom that I love her too and make her happy by being a little more cheery than when I was this morning.” Down she went for breakfast. She gave both mom and dad a big hug with a bright happy smile on her face. “It’s so much better to start off this way!” Said Sandy to her mom and dad. This little cheery morning didn’t end there. It helped to keep Sandy on the right track all day long.

My Prayer Jesus, sometimes I may be tired and wake up a little grumpy, but help me to still try to be cheery and happy so that I can make others around me happy too. Amen.


The Birthday Party “Happy Birthday Carlitos, happy birthday to you!” sang all of his friends. “It’s my birthday, my day! Everything is for me today!” thought Carlitos. “I’m 6 years old and I can do whatever I want.” “Carlitos, honey,” called mother, “how would you like to serve a piece of birthday cake to all your friends?” “But mom, it’s my birthday and I want some cake first. They can wait,” he answered. “But dear, Jesus would want you to give to others. That’s how we show them that we appreciate them. All of your friends have brought you something for your birthday, so couldn’t you give them their pieces of cake first? That would be a nice way to show your appreciation. What do you think?” mother explained. “OK mom, I’ll try it.” Carlitos took the first plate of cake and gave it to one of his friends. “Thank you Carlitos,” said Roberto. Carlitos ran back and forth from the serving table to his friends giving each of them a piece of cake. “Mom, this is fun. Everyone is so thankful for their cake.” 12

UNSELFISHNESS/SHARING

“Yes, son. And now that they all have their cake, you can choose which slice you’d like.” “Thank you mom. This is such a fun party!” said Carlitos.: Jesus, I feel so happy when I think of others. Please help me always to show lots of love and appreciation to others. Amen.

My Prayer Jesus, I feel so happy when I think of others. Please help me always to show lots of love and appreciation to others. Amen.


The Little Gentleman Robert ran into the living room and plopped down on the couch. He stretched out his legs and lay back to watch his favorite TV show. After a few minutes his mother came in carrying his baby sister. “Robert, do you think you could make room for baby Annie and I to sit too?” she asked. Robert moaned, “Ah Mom, I’m so comfortable here. Why can’t you and Annie sit on a kitchen chair?” “Now Robert, if you want to grow up and be a gentleman like your Dad, you would give Annie and I room to sit.” She said. “I’m sorry Mom. What do I have to do to be like Dad?” Robert asked. “Well son, to be like your Dad you would be kind and think of others instead of yourself. Like when a girl enters the room you would stand up and give her the best seat. You would open doors for her and say nice things to her.” explained Mom. “I think I’d like to try that!” said Robert. “Do you think we could start over?” 14

KINDNESS/POLITENESS © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

Mom walked out of the room with baby Annie. She waited a few minutes in the kitchen before entering the living room. As she walked into the room, Robert stood up with a sweeping bow and said, “Good afternoon Mother. Would you like a seat?” Now that’s what I call a real gentleman!” said Mother.

My Prayer I want to be a gentleman (or a lady) too, Jesus, by thinking more of others and less of myself, by being a little kinder each day. Amen.

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Shy Lily “It’s your Uncle Mark, Lily. Please get the door.” called Mama. Lily ran to the door. She backed up behind the door and opened it slowly. Her little face poked out around the side. “Good morning, Lily!” said Uncle Mark. “I hope you’ve had a good night’s rest.” Lily just stood behind the door. “Lily, there’s no reason to be shy,” said Mama. Lily poked her head a little bit further--then she took a step out from behind the door. At last she was all the way out. “Looks to me like you need some ‘boldness power’.” said Mama. “Let’s ask Jesus to help us be brave. Dear Jesus, please help Lily to be brave. Help her not to think of herself and give her more love for others. Amen.” “I have an idea to help you,” said Uncle Mark, “I’ll teach you what children in other countries say when they meet others.” TICK TOCK - TICK TOCK (Later) 16

SHYNESS/BOLDNESS © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

Ding-Dong! Ding-Dong! This time Lily ran to the door. As she opened it she said, “Bonjour, Auntie Rose! Bonjour!” “Why thank you, Lily. That’ so sweet of you.” answered Auntie Rose. “Mom, it makes me feel so happy when I don’t think about myself or how shy I am. I think Jesus helped me a lot. Thank you for praying for me,” said Lily.

My Prayer Jesus, please help me to be bold and brave too, by learning to give love to others. Help me to face my fears. Amen.


Sweet Deeds “Andres! Could you please see what your little brother needs?” called Mother. Little Paulo had been sick all night with a cough and cold. “Mom, I’ll be there when I’m done playing basketball,” answered Andres. He continued dribbling the ball around the court and made another shot through the hoop. “Andres, could you please come in,” said Mother, “ I think we need to talk.” Andres dropped his ball on the ground and slowly walked into the house. “Andres, don’t you think that was rather rude of you to just keep on playing when I had asked you to do something for me? I wasn’t asking you to do something hard. I just wanted you to check on your brother for me. You know, Jesus was never too busy for the little children who wanted to come to Him. So don’t you think you could do the same for your little brother?” she asked. “Yes, mother, I’ll try.” replied Andres. Andres left the living room and walked into the kitchen. “Dear Jesus, what should I do to help my little brother? That’s it! I’ll bring him some cookies mom just made. That should cheer him 18

KINDNESS/UNSELFISHNESS

up!” Andres got a plate from the cupboard and filled it with cookies and a cup of orange juice. Then he walked into his little brother’s room, “Surprise! These are for you!” he said. “Thank you, Andres!” replied Paulo. His face lit up in a big smile. Andres felt happy too, that he could be a blessing to his brother.

My Prayer Jesus, it makes me so happy when I do something nice for someone else. Please show me more sweet things I can do for others around me. Amen.


Be Wise Exercise! “Mom, can I go to Keisha’s house?” asked Cody. “Yes, Cody you may go but be home by dinner.” answered Cody’s mom. Cody skipped down the walk towards Keisha’s house. He passed by the playground where all of his friends were playing a game of tag. “Hey Cody! Come and join us!” the boys called. “I’ll be back soon. I’m going to get Keisha to play.” he replied. Knock—knock! Keisha opened the door. “Keisha come play with us at the park. Everyone’s waiting for you. We’re going to play tag.” said Cody. “Oh Cody, I’m right in the middle of watching my favorite show on TV. Come in and watch it with me.” Keisha said. “OK,” said Cody. He didn’t want to hurt Keisha’s feelings so he sat down with her to watch the show. A few minutes later Keisha’s mom walked in the room. “Why Cody, I didn’t know you were here,” she said. “Keisha, why don’t you and Cody go out to play?” “Mom, I’m watching my favorite show,” answered Keisha. “Keisha, you watch that show everyday. But you don’t have Cody 20

HEALTH/EXERCISE © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

here everyday and it’s such a nice day too. Growing children need lots of fresh air and exercise. So why don’t we all go to the park?” Keisha’s mom said. Keisha, Cody and her mom walked across the street to the playground. “Keisha, do you want to play basketball with us?” called Renee and Claudia. “Cody, let’s fly kites!” called the boys. Keisha’s mom joined the other mothers for a short jog around the park while their children played. Everyone was having fun together, and that’s not all – they were also doing good to their bodies by exercising.

My Prayer Jesus, help me to stay strong and healthy by being faithful to go out in the fresh air and sunshine for some good exercise each day. Amen.

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Jumping Season “Autumn is my favorite time of the year! Lots of falling leaves and lots of jumping.” said Dad. “Why is that? ” asked Marta and Juancito. “That’s because when I was young like you two, my father would let us rake up all the leaves in the yard,” answered Dad. “But Dad, why is that so special? And where does the jumping come in?” asked Juancito. “Raking leaves doesn’t seem like fun to me, either,” said Marta. “Well, children, that’s because after raking up all the leaves in the yard, my father would let us children jump in the piles we had collected.” “Now that sounds like fun! Can we do it too?” asked the children. “Now children there’s one more thing I need to tell you about the leaves. After we had finished jumping on our piles, my father would make sure that we finished our job and gathered up the piles so that he could dispose of them. And he also made sure we put the rakes away. Do you think you could do that when you’re done?” replied Dad. “Yes, Dad!” Marta and Juancito ran to the woodshed to get the rakes. Marta got the purple one and Juancito got the blue one. “I’ll rake this half of the yard and you do the other half. Is that a deal?” asked 22

HELPING/DILIGENCE © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

Juancito. “Sure,” agreed Marta. The two children eagerly set off raking their areas. After half an hour they had both gotten several little piles. “Marta, if we work as a team and put all of our piles together that way we’ll have a really big pile to jump in.” suggested Juancito. “That’s a great idea!” said Marta. The children raked a little more until they had a really BIG pile of leaves in the middle of the yard. Juancito walked back to the end of the yard. He turned and ran as fast as he could towards the piles. “Whoopee!” he yelled as he jumped into the leaves. The leaves scattered left and right! “Now it’s my turn,” said Marta. She walked over to the woodshed and put the rakes away. Now she had a good head start! She ran towards the leaf pile from the woodshed door. Whoosh! Plop! She landed in the middle of the pile of leaves. “This is so much fun!” she cried. “Thanks Dad, for such a fun way of raking leaves!” said both Marta and Juancito.

My Prayer Jesus, Thank You so much for the different seasons. Thank You that we have so many fun ways of doing our little jobs. Help us to be faithful in all that we do. Amen. 23 © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

Sunbeam Words “Wednesday is Children’s Day, class. Let’s make a list of things we can do to make it special for others as well,” said Mrs. Robinson. Ana raised her little hand. “I know what we can do. We can make gifts for each other.” “Yes, that sounds like a good idea. But to make it a very special day, isn’t there something more we could do?” asked Mrs. Robinson. “Could we give our gifts away to our grandparents or something?” asked Tommy. “Now you’re getting it.” said Mrs. Robinson. Ana popped up again, “Mrs. Robinson, maybe we could give our time too! Like we could visit an orphanage and sing for them. That would make other children happy.” “Ana, that’s a wonderful idea! Your loving smiles and cheerful voices will brighten up their day. When we think of others on special days and go out of our way to brighten it for them, it will mean much more than if we only thought of ourselves on Children’s Day. I’m so glad I have a class like you!” exclaimed Mrs. Robinson. After Children’s Day, Mrs. Robinson had a special surprise for 24

LOVE/KINDNESS

the children who gave of their time to make sweet things for others or went out of their way to show some appreciation to someone else. They had one fun outing to the zoo, something which they long looked forward to. The children had not planned nor expected it, but they understood and saw that because they gave of their time for others, they in turn found something to make them very happy.

My Prayer Jesus, I want to brighten up someone’s day, so help me to think of many sweet things to do for others, on special days, and every day. Amen.


Let’s Go Slow! Jan and Dan ran into the dining room as fast as they could. “Haha! I beat you!” yelled Dan. “I can run faster than you! I can do everything faster and better than you!” he added. Dan plopped himself down and began to eat as fast as he could. He shoveled in the peas and he gulped down his drink. Next he nearly swallowed his whole hamburger! He gobbled and ate everything so much faster than Jan. Jan looked over at Dan. He was so much faster but he was so much sloppier too. Jan could barely look at him while he ate. Dan finished his meal, jumped up from his chair and ran out the door to play. He climbed up to the tree house and lay down on the floor. “Ouch! Oh, my tummy doesn’t feel so good!” he groaned. Jan ate her meal slowly. She wiped her mouth on her napkin, got up from the table and helped mother wash the dishes. Then she decided to check on Dan and see what he was up to. Jan went out to the tree house. “Dan, are you up there?” she called. 26

PATIENCE/SAMPLE/TABLE ETIQUETTE © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

“Yes, I’m here. Please come up. I don’t feel so good,” he answered. Jan slowly climbed up the tree. She peeped in the door and saw poor Dan lying on the floor. “Dan, I think you should try to eat a little slower. When you eat so fast it doesn’t look nice. Also you can’t digest your food as well when you run out the door because you want to be the first up the tree. I’ll tell you what, tomorrow at lunch I’ll show you some new manners that will help you to eat and look better. Is that OK with you? And now would you like me to pray for your tummy ache?” she asked. “Yes, Jan. That’s really nice of you. I guess I need someone like you to help me with my manners,” said Dan.

My Prayer Jesus, I want to stay healthy by eating all my food real nicely and to be able to digest it properly too. Please help me to make others happy with my good table manners. Amen. 27

Two Little Keys “Let’s play hide and seek,” said Natalie Green. Natalie’s mother had made a new kind of ‘hide-and-seek’ game. She had hidden surprises all around the house. But in order to collect the surprises the children would have to use one of the ‘special keys for manners’ to keep the surprises. “Now children, you must all find a partner to help you in this game.” said Mrs. Green. Edmond and Natalie were partners for this game. “Let’s look in the living room. I bet there must be surprises in there!” said Edmond. He and Natalie ran to the living room. They looked under the couch and they looked under the old newspapers. But they didn’t find anything. Then they checked under the chairs and beside the telephone. But still they found nothing. “Oh we’ll never find anything!” Natalie sighed. All of the other children had found at least one prize. Edmond would not give up. He looked under the doormat and there was a small wrapped package. 28

PLEASE/THANK YOU © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

“Natalie! I found something! Let’s open it.” He said. “Not so fast young man. What is one of the ‘special keys’?” said Mrs. Green. Edmond didn’t know. He looked at Natalie, “Do you know?” “Oh yes, it’s ‘please’,” said Natalie. “That’s right, Natalie. And ‘thank-you’ is the other one,” added her mother. “Those two small keys are very important and you should use them every day with those around you.”

My Prayer Jesus, please help me to learn to use these two important keys each day, in everything I do and say. Amen.


Good Nutrition “Today’s class, we are going to study good nutrition,” said Mrs. Miller. “Who knows what that is?” “Does that mean what we eat?” asked Brian. “Yes, it does. Do any of you have any suggestions about what we should put in our chart on the board?” she asked. Mrs. Miller had made a chart on the black board. She listed the main food groups from the food pyramid: protein, vegetables, fruits, oils, sweets, whole grains, and milk products. “Alright children, let’s start with the first row. Tell me what to put under each category.” Mrs. Miller instructed. “Let’s start with the milk products group.” “I’d like to put yogurt,” said Charlie. “And we can add cheese,” added Annie. “My favorite is ice cream!” said Brian. “Class, ice cream is alright to eat for special occasions. You can get a kind that has less sugar and artificial chemicals in it. You see, sugar gives you energy but is only good for you in small amounts. The best sugar or sweets to eat are honey, molasses and raw sugar. Once it’s been refined it looses it’s good qualities. Who can name some other good wholesome foods for our chart?” “Spinach and zucchini are my favorite veggies.” said Annie. “I like beets and potatoes.” added Charlie. “Me too.” added Brian. “I like fish! I go fishing with my grandpa on Saturdays. It’s lots of fun.”

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HEALTHY DIET

said Jay. “I like pizza and fresh bread.” answered Jose. “My grandma makes real good pizza with lots of cheese. So where would that go?” he asked. “Jose, pizza has flour, which goes under whole grains and cheese which is the milk products group. You see, children lots of the good things that we eat go under several groups. The main idea is to try to eat a well-balanced diet. What would happen if we only ate ice cream?” she asked. “I know, my Dad’s a dentist and he says that if we eat too many sweets we get lots of cavities in our teeth.” said Charlie. “That’s right. Our bones wouldn’t grow very strong either. Also class it’s very important to be thankful for all the good meals your parents cook for you. I have a project for you all. This week write down on the chart that I have photocopied for you, all of the things that you eat and drink. Then we will compare our charts on Monday. Has everyone got one?” Asked Mrs. Miller.

My Prayer Jesus, please help us to eat all of our food. Help us to grow strong and healthy. Amen.


Love Never Fails Gene ran into the classroom. CRUNCH! He looked down. “Oh no! I’ve stepped on a toy.” He said. He looked around to see if anyone else had heard the sound. “Good, no else heard it. I’ll just stick it in the drawer here. No one will find it there.” Gene took the broken doll in his hands and placed it under some books and papers and went to his seat. Sally came in with all of her friends to take their seats for the class. “Oh, you should see the new doll I got for my birthday. She came with a dollhouse and lots of pretty clothes. I left her here on my desk.” Said Sally. Sally looked around her desk. It was no where in sight! She sat down and started to cry! Gene was watching all of this from his side of the room. He remembered what he had learned from his mother. “Mom always taught me to be kind and truthful. I guess I better tell Sally what happened to her doll.” He thought. Gene got up from his chair went to the drawer, opened it and 32

LOVE/TRUTH/FORGIVENESS © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

took out the little broken dolly. He knelt down beside Sally’s desk and said in as soft a voice as he could, “Sally, I’m really sorry. I ran into the classroom and didn’t see your doll on the floor. I stepped on her and broke her arm. If you like I can ask my dad for some super glue to fix it for you.” Sally took her dolly into her arms, held her close and gave Gene a hug. “Gene. It’s ok, I guess it could happen to anyone. Thanks for the offer.”

My Prayer Jesus, please give me lots of love to make me more honest and truthful, and also to forgive others if they do something that I don’t like. Amen.

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A Cheerful Helper Little Rosie Johnson and her family lived on a farm. She had two big brothers that helped their father in the fields. They took care of the animals and the garden. Rosie was only five years old, so she just played most of the day. “Mommy, can I help daddy in the fields like my brothers do?” Rosie asked one morning. “I’m sorry Rosie, but you are too small to help in the fields. But I may have a few things for you to do around the house. Would you like to help me?” ”Yes!” answered little Rosie. Rosie wanted to be a helper too. “If you make your bed and maybe the one of your brothers too, that would be a big help for me. What do you think about that?” Little Rosie thought for a moment. ”Hmmm. I like that idea mommy. I’d like to learn how to make my own bed,” she said. Rosie woke up the next morning. She ate her breakfast and went out to play. Mother was in the kitchen washing the dishes. Daddy and the big boys went out to the fields to work. Rosie sat in the grass and played with her dollies all morning. Soon she began to get tired of playing the same thing. As she walked in 34

HELPING IN THE HOME/FAITHFULNESS/SELF ESTEEM © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

the house she called out, “Mommy, I’m bored! What can I do now?” “Rosie, I thought you were going to help make your bed this morning.” “Oh I’m sorry mommy, I guess I forgot.” said Rosie. “Looks like I need to make a chart to help you remember. I’ll post it on the refrigerator door. That way we can see it and remind you. Each day that you help me I’ll give you a little sticker and at the end of the week you get a little prize.” Said Mother. “Thanks Mommy! I’ll go to my room right now and start making my bed.” said Rosie.

My Prayer Jesus, I want to be able to help mommy and daddy and those around me. Please help me to grow up and learn how to do many new things so that I can be a help to others. Amen. 35 © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

New Friends “My Papa says, that whatever we are doing we can always be praying and thinking of our friends around the world.” said Marisa to her best friends, Teddy and Puppy. Marisa was the only child in her family. She had no brothers and no sisters, but she had lots of friends in her room. She had Teddy, Puppy, Kitty and Dolly. “Let’s pray for all of the children who are lonely like me,” said Marisa. “Dolly, you and Kitty can pray for them. And Teddy and Puppy, you can pray for all of the little animals who don’t have friends.” Marisa gathered all of her friends from off their shelves and placed them on chairs in a circle around her play table. “Now I’ll start. See, I can wipe the table as I say my prayer: Dear Jesus, please help all of the little children in the world to find You. Help them to get new friends, too.” Marisa walked around the table and helped her little stuffy friends ‘say’ their prayers. Then in walked Papa with a surprise for Marisa! 36

THINKING OF OTHERS/PRAYER

“Marisa, this is Angela. She’s new to the neighborhood. Looks like you finally have a new friend! Just what you prayed for,” said Papa. “’When you pray things will happen and things will be different, isn’t that right Marisa?” asked Papa. “Yes, when I pray for all my friends Jesus doesn’t only help them but he makes me happy too,” said Marisa. Angela then added, “I think I’ll start praying too.”

My Prayer Jesus, I’d like to have many friends so help me to think of others and remember to pray for them. Amen.


Let’s Try Again! R-i-n-n-n-g---R-i-n-n-n-g---Ring! Chimed the alarm clock in the hallway. “Sally! John! Time to get up for school!” called Dad. Sally rolled over, yawned and looked at the clock. John didn’t move. He was hoping Dad wouldn’t call him again. “Sally, John! You’ve only got 20 minutes before the bus comes.” called Dad again. Sally popped out of bed, grabbed a few clothes, smoothed down her hair and ran down to the breakfast table. John came straggling in behind her. The two sleepy eyed, mismatched children tried to gobble down their food. “Sally and John, I’m very sorry but this is not acceptable. I want you both to go back upstairs and start all over again.” said Dad. Sally and John got up from the table and walked back up the stairs. Sally looked in the mirror. Her hair was a mess and her blouse didn’t match her skirt. John had his clothes on inside out and he had forgotten to wash his face. 38

GOOD HEALTH/CLEANLINESS/LOVE FOR OTHERS © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

“I guess Dad’s right,” said Sally. She changed her clothes and fixed her hair. John brushed his teeth and washed his face. Then both children walked back to the breakfast table. “Now you children look presentable. Being neat and clean is another way for you to show love and consideration. It makes us all happy when you put forth the effort to look nice. Now I’ll drive you both to school so you won’t be late for class.” said Dad.

My Prayer Jesus, please help me to make others happy by being a good example and look tidy and presentable. Amen.

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The Alarm Clock “Mom, tomorrow our class is invited to go horse-back riding at the fair!” exclaimed Jay as he ran through the kitchen door. “Oh, that’s wonderful! I’ll set the alarm clock so you can wake up on time.” said Mom. After dinner Jay got out his sun hat, sunscreen lotion, gloves, and jacket and placed them into his backpack. Jay was ready for the excursion. Mom had put the alarm clock on the window sill by his bed. “I’m a big boy”, thought Jay, “I don’t need this.” He switched off the alarm, closed his eyes and drifted off to dreamland. The next morning Jay awoke to the sound of the bus passing by his house. “Oh no! I’ve missed the bus!” He cried as he fumbled for his backpack and clothes. He ran to the kitchen. “Mom, Mom! Stop the bus!” he cried. Mom was nowhere in sight. He ran through the living room. Still no sight of his mother. Out the door he ran to the bus stop. There was his mother calmly talking to the bus driver. “Mom, I turned off the alarm clock last night because I thought I was old enough and didn’t need to use one.” said Jay. 40

BE ON TIME/LOVE/OBEDIENCE © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

“Jay, lots of people use alarm clocks. I put the alarm on so that you wouldn’t be late. When you’re late, you waste other people’s time who have to wait for you. And being on time is another way of showing consideration.” “I’m sorry, Mom. Next time I’ll use it.” said Jay. He hopped on the bus, waved to his mom and took his seat.

My Prayer Jesus, please help me to be loving and considerate of others by being on time and keeping my word. Amen.


The Sandcastle “Carrie, it’s a sunny day! Perfect for a picnic at the beach with your friends,” called big sister Gabi. Carrie remembered that it was her turn to host her play group. Belle, Artie, and Patrick rang the bell. “Hi everyone! I hope you all brought your swimsuits because today we are going to the beach!” announced Carrie. “Yea!” excitedly answered all the children. Gabi picked up the picnic basket and out they marched to the beach. “I’m going to make a sand castle.” Belle said. The others played along side the water the whole morning. Poor Belle. Her moat sprang a leak, the walls were washed away by the waves. Nothing worked. She was having a hard time. “I need help!” she called out. “Every time I think I have a side finished, the waves come and wash it away. I’ll never build a nice castle!” she moaned. Gabi called all of the children together. “I think that if we all help build a sandcastle together that we’d be able to beat the waves and build a giant sand castle. What do you think?” 42

UNITY/WORKING TOGETHER/LOVE

Belle, Carrie, Artie and Patrick agreed. The boys got some buckets and shovels and started digging in the center. Belle and Carrie filled plastic cups up with sand to make the walls stronger. Big sister Gabi dug a moat around the castle. Soon they were all done! “Look at that! The waves can’t wash our castle so easily when we all work together.” said Carrie. “That makes us a strong team!” added Patrick.

My Prayer Jesus, I want to be a strong team too, by working with others. Help me to be easy to work with by being loving and friendly. Amen.


Quiz Questions for Stories in this Book: FIRST DAY IN SCHOOL .............................................................. 4 1. What did the children in Mrs. Miller’s class need to learn? 2. What did they do to begin? 3. What do manners have to do with building a tower?

BRIAN’S LITTLE LESSON ............................................................. 6 1. Why didn’t Dad stop when Brian called? 2. How did that make Brian feel? 3. After Brian helped Grandma Jenkins, what reward did he get?

HIDE-AND-GO-SEEK .................................................................. 8 1. Why couldn’t Kevin and Kayla go outside and play? 2. What did they do, to find out what to do? 3. Do you stop and ask Jesus things too?

A CHEERY MORNING HELLO ................................................. 10 1. How did Sandy answer her mother when first she woke up? 2. What made her change? 3. How did the rest of her day go?

THE BIRTHDAY PARTY .............................................................. 12 1. What was Carlitos’ first reaction to his birthday? 2. His mom explained that he could show his friends some appreciation by doing what? 3. Do you think you would have fun when you take the time to give or share something with your friends?

THE LITTLE GENTLEMAN ......................................................... 14 1. What did mom ask when she walked into the room? 2. What was Robert’s first reaction? 3. What would you have done in that situation?

SHY LILY ....................................................................................... 16 44 © Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

1. What did Lily do when Uncle Mark visited? 2. Are you shy sometimes? 3. What helped Lily do better?

SWEET DEEDS ............................................................................. 18 1. What did mom ask Andres to do? 2. What was Andres’ first reaction? 3. What did Andres end up doing for his little brother?

BE WISE - EXERCISE! ................................................................ 20 1. What did Cody go to Keisha’s house for? 2. What did Keisha want to do? 3. What did mother tell them?

JUMPING SEASON .................................................................... 22 1. Why was autumn Dad’s favorite time of the year? 2. What happened when the two children put their leaf piles together? 3. What did they need to remember to do after they finished the job?

SUNBEAM WORDS ................................................................... 24 1. What was the special day that Mrs. Robinson was talking about? 2. What are some ideas the children gave? 3. What are some things that you like to do for others?

LET’S GO SLOW .......................................................................... 26 1. Who had good table manners? 2. What happened to Dan after he ate? 3. Are there some table manners that you could learn about and do better in?

TWO LITTLE KEYS ....................................................................... 28 1. What were the children supposed to look for? 2. What did they need to do before they opened their gifts? 3. Can you remember what the two important keys are?

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GOOD NUTRITION ................................................................... 30 1. What did the class study? 2. Why are too many sweets not good for you? 3. What are your favorite foods?

LOVE NEVER FAILS ................................................................... 32 1. What happened when Gene ran into the classroom? 2. What did he do with the toy? 3. How would you have reacted to what Gene did to Sally’s doll?

A CHEERFUL HELPER .............................................................. 34 1. What did Rosie want to do? 2. What was Rosie’s little responsibility each morning? 3. What did mommy think of that would help her to remember?

NEW FRIENDS ........................................................................... 36 1. What did Marisa’s Papa tell her about praying for her friends? 2. Who did Marisa pray with in the story? 3. What happened after she prayed?

LET’S TRY AGAIN ...................................................................... 38 1. How did the children in the story get up? 2. Why did Dad have to send them back upstairs? 3. Can you remember at least 3 things the children did to fix themselves up for the day?

THE ALARM CLOCK ................................................................ 40 1. What did Jay’s Mom do before he went to sleep? 2. Why did Jay think he didn’t need the alarm clock on? 3. What’s another way of showing consideration?

THE SANDCASTLE ................................................................... 42 1. Where did the children go for the day? 2. What did Belle want to do? 3. What was the solution to building a strong sandcastle?



© Copyright 2004 Agnes De Bezenac

The KEYS TO LIFE SERIES supplies the Character Development Skills that each child needs to use throughout their lives. Through Stories, Talk Times, Games and Activities, these basic social skills come to life.

The Keys to Life Series Sets:

Little Bits of Happiness Help Me See & Do

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