DASA

Early Elementary 

The simpler, the better. 

DASA is like a superhero that protects everyone at school.

• DASA is against bullying: It doesn't like it when people are mean or hurtful to others.

• DASA wants everyone to feel safe: It makes sure that everyone can play and learn without being scared.

• DASA helps us be kind: It teaches us to be nice to each other and to help people who might need it.

You can also use a story to explain DASA:

Imagine a classroom where everyone is happy and playing together. But then, one day, a new student joins the class and feels a little scared. DASA is there to help the new student feel welcome and to stop anyone from being mean to them.

Key points to emphasize:

• Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.

• It's okay to tell a grown-up if someone is being mean.

• We should be kind and helpful to each other.

Children's Books & Videos to Explain DASA

While there aren't specific children's books directly about DAS,, these stories can help early elementary students understand the principles of kindness, respect, and inclusivity that DASA promotes:

Stories About Kindness and Respect

• "The Rainbow Fish" by Marcus Pfister: This colorful story teaches about sharing and the importance of being kind to others.

• "The Bully's Heart" by Daniel J. Freedman: This book explores the feelings of a bully and offers a different perspective on bullying behavior.

• "The Paper Bag Princess" by Robert Munsch: This classic story celebrates a princess who doesn't conform to traditional gender roles and saves the day.

Early elementary videos focused on kindness, love & empathy

Early elementary videos focused on forgiveness, fairness & honest

Stories About Diversity and Inclusion

• "It's Okay to Be Different" by Todd Parr: This colorful book celebrates diversity in all its forms.

• "The Ugly Duckling" by Hans Christian Andersen: A timeless tale about feeling different and finding your place in the world.

• "All Are Welcome" by Alexandra Penney: A beautiful and inclusive story about a welcoming school community.

Early elementary videos focused on perspective and having an open-mind

Early elementary videos focused on creativity & curiosity 

Stories About Standing Up for Others

• "The Lion King" by Disney: This classic story teaches the importance of standing up for what's right, even when it's difficult.

• "The Courageous Kid" by Michelle Knudsen: This book encourages children to be brave and stand up for their friends.

Early elementary videos focused on teamwork, leadership & being brave

Another good way to get the point across is making a connection with games. 

Simple games that focus on building social awareness–then being intentional as to they WHY behind the games and asking students reflection prompts

• Understanding Emotions: Kids who can identify and express their own emotions, as well as empathize with others, are less likely to engage in harmful behaviors.

• Respectful Communication: Social awareness skills help students learn how to communicate effectively and respectfully, which can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

• Conflict Resolution: Children who have developed social awareness skills are better equipped to resolve conflicts peacefully, rather than resorting to bullying or harassment.

• Bystander Intervention: Social awareness skills can empower children to recognize and intervene in situations where bullying or harassment is occurring.

• Inclusive Behavior: Kids who are socially aware are more likely to be inclusive and accepting of their peers, regardless of differences.

Responsible decision making games-again, being intentional as to the why behind this game

• Ethical Behavior: Children who can make responsible decisions are more likely to behave ethically and avoid actions that could harm others.

• Conflict Resolution: Responsible decision making skills can help children choose constructive ways to resolve conflicts, rather than resorting to bullying or harassment.

• Bystander Intervention: Children who can make responsible decisions are more likely to intervene when they witness bullying or harassment.

• Respect for Others: Responsible decision making involves considering the needs and feelings of others, which is essential for preventing and addressing discrimination and harassment.

• Self-Control: Children who can make responsible decisions are better able to control their impulses and avoid impulsive actions that could lead to negative consequences.