Hands Are Not for Hitting
Best Behavior Series
What’s inside...
Children learn that violence is never okay, that they can manage their anger and other strong feelings, and that they're capable of positive, loving actions—like playing, making music, learning, counting, helping, taking care, and much more. Includes a special section for adults with activities and discussion starters. It’s never too soon for children to learn that violence is never okay, hands can do many good things, and everyone is capable of positive, loving actions. In this bright, inviting, durable board book, simple words and full-color illustrations teach these important concepts in ways even very young children can understand. Created in response to requests from parents, preschool teachers, and childcare providers, this book belongs everywhere young children are. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some positive ways we can use our hands to help others?
How did you feel when you saw how the characters used their hands in the story?
Can you think of a time when you used your hands for something kind?
What are some things we should never use our hands for?
How can we remind ourselves to use our hands positively every day?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, use specific scenes to guide your child's understanding of right and wrong ways to use their hands.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about each situation in the book, reinforcing empathy and understanding.
Praise your child when they provide examples of using their hands helpfully, reinforcing positive behavior.
Link the book’s messages to real-life situations your child may encounter, helping them apply lessons learned.
Create a small poster together with reminders and illustrations of positive hand uses, inspired by the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding appropriate uses of hands
Explanation: The book teaches children that hands are not meant for hitting, but rather for more positive actions like playing, creating, and helping.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express themselves and resolve conflicts through constructive and non-violent means, such as using their hands for creative activities or gestures of kindness.
Example Lesson: Emotional regulation
Explanation: It guides children through understanding their emotions and using their hands in ways that are not harmful to others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by recognizing emotional cues and finding positive outlets for their feelings, thereby reducing instances of physical aggression.
Example Lesson: Respect for others
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of respecting personal boundaries and the physical space of others.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the concept of personal space and encourages respectful interactions with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Conflict resolution
Explanation: The book presents alternatives to physical expressions of frustration, such as talking it out or asking for help.
Real-World Application: In real-life scenarios, children can remember these strategies to resolve disagreements without resorting to physical actions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and helpfulness
Explanation: By suggesting positive uses for hands, such as building, crafting, or aiding others, the book promotes using creativity and helpfulness as outlets.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to engage in activities where they can use their hands to create and help, fostering a sense of accomplishment and empathy.