RJ doesn't realize his words are wrong. He thinks he's just speaking the truth and offering feedback. Throughout the story, RJ is taught how to analyze social situations before he speaks and to choose appropriate words to say, or none at all. With help from his parents, he discovers he doesn't have to verbalize every thought that pops into his head. In fact, sometimes the less said the better!

I love that someone wrote a book about this, I could have used this as a child. In this story RJ, who thinks he is being helpful and honest, is getting in trouble at home and school because of the things he says. He makes his sister cry but he doesn't mean to. He doesn't understand that his words are a problem. His parents remind him that he doesn't always need to say the thoughts that are in his head and that sometimes it is rude to do so. ( )

In this book RJ needs to start using a social filter when he speaks. With help from his parents, he learns he doesn't have to verbalize every thought that pops into his head. In fact, sometimes the less said the better!.

Age: 3-5 years
Source: Pierce College Library at Fort Steilacoom ( )

Personality
this book is about a boy who's mouth is getting him into a lot of trouble.
plot
5-8yrs

SUMMARY: RJ is a child who speaks his mind without thinking before he speaks. He usually ends up having to apologize for offending his classmates and friends. The rude unfiltered comments hurt others feelings and get him into trouble. A rude comment at school earned him detention and an insensitive remark at home made his sister cry. After so many comments are made RJs parents decide to discuss the issue with him. His parents help him to realize that the comments he makes have a direct effect on other people and that he should think before he speaks. RJ is confronted with a situation where he has to use his filter and learns that he doesn't always have to speak what comes to his mind.

Personal Reaction:
This is a great book about using a "filter" before we speak. The book illustrates how using a social filter can avoid hurting other peoples feelings.

Extension Ideas.
Write a list of positive words that we can use to encourage others.
Using construction paper create a paper heart to give to somebody to make them feel better. ( )