Every Cowgirl Needs Dancing Boots

 Janni, R. (2011). Every Cowgirl Needs Dancing Boots. New York: Dutton Children's Books. Grade 1-3
Written by: Rebecca Janni
Genre: Fiction
Theme: Friendship and embracing differences
Subject Area: Social Science

Summary:
Nellie Sue has brand new dancing boots but she can't go dancing alone. The glitter girls don't seem all that nice and they wear ballet shoes which is why Nellie Sue thinks that no one will want to have a hoedown with her. Nellie Sue decides that she would try anyways, but during the hoedown Nellie slips and falls. She is embarrassed and thinks the hoedown is ruined until one of the glitter girls helps her out.


Initiating Questions and Activities:

1. Do you have dancing boots or know anyone who does?
2. Why do you think every girl needs dancing boots?
3. Is dancing for just girls or can boys dance too?
4. What do you think will happen in this story?

Activity:
Put on some music and play a quick game of freeze dance before sitting down to read the story. After playing show the children that anyone can dance. Then have the students sit in a circle and share their favorite songs to dance to.

Extending Question and Activity:

1. Why was Nellie Sue sad in the beginning?
2. What did you think was going to happen after Nellie Sue fell?
3. What was your favorite part of the story?
4. How could you help a friend?

Activity:
Give the children a cut out of a boot or a boot writing page. In the boot have them write ways they can help a friend. Hang these around the classroom as instant and daily reminders of how to be a good friend.