Sharon, keep your hair on
What’s inside...
In 'Sharon, Keep Your Hair On' by Gillian Rubinstein, the story follows a young girl named Sharon who is known for her beautiful, long hair. As her school announces a swimming carnival, she worries about the effects of chlorine on her hair. Throughout the book, Sharon confronts her anxieties and societal pressures about appearance. With support from friends and family, she learns that her value is not based on her hair and gains confidence to embrace new experiences without fear. The book explores themes of self-acceptance and discovering one's identity beyond physical attributes.
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Sharon
Discussion points
What do you think Sharon feels when her hair keeps getting in the way?
How do you deal with situations that frustrate you, like Sharon’s hair?
What are some ways Sharon could solve her problem without getting upset?
Why do you think Sharon’s friends reacted the way they did?
How would you help a friend who has a problem like Sharon’s?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child how they felt about the story and Sharon’s dilemma. Share a personal story of a similar minor frustration to create a bonding moment. Encourage empathy by discussing how Sharon’s feelings might relate to their own experiences. Highlight the importance of problem-solving and patience through Sharon’s challenges. End the discussion by asking your child to think of creative ways they might help a friend in a similar situation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Patience
Explanation: The story follows Sharon as she navigates a series of mishaps while trying to style her hair, teaching children the importance of remaining patient even when things don't go according to plan.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying calm and patient when facing difficulties in schoolwork or while learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: As Sharon encounters various challenges, she uses innovative ideas to address them, showing children that thinking creatively can provide solutions to problems.
Real-World Application: Kids can use creative thinking to solve conflicts with peers or to come up with unique ways to complete tasks and projects at school.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Ultimately, Sharon learns to embrace and love her unique hair, promoting a message of self-love and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate their own qualities and differences, fostering a positive self-image.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite the frustrations, Sharon does not give up on trying to fix her hair, exemplifying resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can mirror this resilience by persisting through challenges in their studies or personal lives without giving up.
Example Lesson: Encouraging Empathy
Explanation: The story shows how Sharon's friends support her through her struggles, highlighting the importance of empathy and support among peers.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of supporting and empathizing with friends and classmates in their daily interactions.