Sometimes when a child or adult has a special need, health concern, or comes from an unfamiliar faith or background, we are unsure how to act. This Little Critter book demonstrates how to be kind and curious, and show respect for their abilities and strengths.

This lesson introduces young people to the concept of philanthropy as giving time, talent, or treasure for the common good. They learn that even young people can be philanthropists. The following lessons lead young people to plan a fundraiser. 

Learners analyze characters in five European folktales, particularly female characters. They analyze what small acts of kindness contribute to both the giver and receiver.

Learners share what they learned about an environmental issue with the community.

Youth learn about basic human rights and discuss whether everyone deserves these rights. In addition, they reflect on examples of human kindness and collective action for the common good.

Through discussion of the book The Seven Chinese Brothers, learners recognize that using our talents and working together to help others has benefits greater than the opportunity cost (what we gave up to take generous action). 

Participants discuss and analyze the solutions implemented by President Roosevelt during the Great Depression. The role that philanthropy played in helping to end the Great Depression will be central to the discussion.

Youth explore the effects on themselves, the community, and the world if the government failed to provide U.S. children with an education.

Learners role-play familiar scenarios in ways that follow the rules and support straightforward communication and also in ways that do not support honesty. They discuss the value of rules or expectations for promoting the common good. 

After learning about the definition of respect toward self and others, we explore the idea of respect for property or the environment.