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Moravian Academy in Action
Bringing Hank to Life: A Creative Lesson in Empathy and Connection
The Short Story class hosted the Swain Campus Kindergarten at MSC for some collaborative SEL work and creative drama sessions using Carter Goodrich's book, Nobody Hugs A Cactus.
Goodrich's story is about Hank, an annoyed and angry cactus, who learns that rejecting his animal friends leads to loneliness and isolation. Feeling upset about his rudeness to his friends, Hank grows a flower for Rosie the Tumbleweed, and the two friends become stuck together in a hug. In the end, Hank learns that connection and hugs are very important. When we brought Hank's story to life, all students experienced Hank's annoyance first hand and discovered what Hank really needed--a hug!
Through the activities of drawing ourselves as cactuses, talking about what makes us prickly, and growing our 'flowers,' students discussed their feelings and brainstormed together the things they could to help themselves when they are feeling lonely, sad, or angry. This collaborative experience not only fostered creativity and empathy but also reflected Moravian Academy’s mission to develop compassionate, curious learners who build meaningful connections with others.
