num_pages: 32
description: Theres a new kid in the kindergarten class but she wont say a word! But  does it really matter? This sweet story has a timely there are many ways to make  and be  a friend! The students in Miss Seabrookes kindergarten class dont understand why the new student wont respond when they talk to her. Speaking LOUDER doesnt help. Tayra doesnt even answer the teacher! Should they just leave her be? Maybe Kitty decides she can show Tayra things instead of telling her. Happily it works! Soon the pair find they can communicate with gestures dancing drawings and smiles. And when the others see how much fun theyre having they join in too! It seems words arent the only way to connect and be friends! In this charming picture book Lana Button uses playful cadenced rhyming text to explore the art of making a friend. This story sensitively captures a kindergarteners fears and uncertainties especially around being new and different and models compassion acceptance and friendship as a reassuring way for others to respond. Christine Battuzs expressive illustrations clearly convey the friends emotions as they process this new experience and try to decide what to do about it. This book is a perfect springboard for discussions about feelings friendship differences and belonging. Its a strong choice for character education lessons on kindness empathy inclusiveness and caring.
language: English
title: Tayra's Not Talking
publisher: Kids Can Press