Words Are Not for Hurting

This book is a good reminder for both parents and children to watch what they say. I really enjoyed its message and the story, as did my child.

My son has had some anger issues, so I ordered all the books in this series. He loves them! He asks to read them all the time, and they even seem to be helping a little, too. This particular book also includes many helpful ideas for dealing with anger and temper tantrums. I'll take any help I can get!

This is an excellent book using age appropriate language to send out the message of just how hurtful and harmful words can be. We all know the doggerel bravado verse of sticks and stones is just a crock. I never bought it because words are infinitely more painful than any stick or stone. I think that deceptive verse should be changed to: Sticks and stones may break my bones, But words hurt so much more. Words have the power to hurt or build esteem; to reinforce one's self image and to cause one to feel they are liked or disliked. I think this is an excellent book with a message that cannot be stressed enough. The activities and teaching how to give sincere apologies as opposed to those to appease the adult in question with the idea of deflecting further punishment is also an invaluable lesson. I also like the way the message of harmful words are not limited to peers. It is a good wake up call to how adults in general talk to children and to one another. This book deserves a place of honor!

This book does a great job reinforcing how powerful words are. The book sends out a great message in a child centered and creative way.

Written by parenting columnist Elizabeth Verdick with an age-appropriate vocabulary, and illustrated by Marieka Heinlen, Words Are Not For Hurting was designed especially for children ages 4 to 7, a time of growing vocabularies and increasing social interaction with peers and others. The simple, positive message is think before speaking, and choosing not only what to say but how to say it. Young readers will also learn of the power in saying "I'm sorry" when the speak words that hurt the feelings of others. Enhanced with a special section at the end that includes activities and discussion starters, Words Are Not For Hurting is confidently recommended for home, school, and childcare center early childhood library resources and character education reading lists.