Everybelly

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Maddie, the main character of Everybelly, appreciates bellies. She likes it when her belly is full of food and knows that her “Mama’s belly will always feel like home.” Help students notice and appreciate their own bellies and bodies with some belly breathing before reading Everybelly together and exploring the stories their bodies hold.

Have students sit or lie comfortably and place their hands on their bellies as they take slow breaths in and out, feeling their bellies rise and fall. Ask students what they notice about their bodies as they breathe. Then read Everybelly aloud and talk about how the bodies of Maddie’s family, friends, and neighbors help tell their stories—the foods they enjoy, the people they love, and the things they like to do.

Invite students to think about the stories their own bodies carry. Provide materials for students to create a collage using images, colors, textures, or shapes that represent things they love, moments they remember, people who make them feel cared for, ways their bodies help them experience the world, and experiences that are important to them. Encourage students to consider all kinds of stories their bodies hold: the favorite foods, family meals, big laughs, and  feelings of  love and safety in their bellies; the running, jumping, and exploring in their legs; and the drawing, building, and hugging in their hands.

Give students a chance to share their collages and listen to and celebrate one another’s stories—perhaps along with a special snack that every belly can enjoy!

Questions for Discussion or Reflective Writing

• Which belly is Maddie’s favorite belly? Why? Do you have a favorite belly?
• How does Maddie feel about a full belly? Which foods that Maddie likes do you like or want to try? What are your favorite foods to put in your belly?
• What is something you love about your own body? Why is it okay that everyone looks and acts differently from one another? How can we make sure everyone feels valued for who they are, regardless of how they look or what their interests are?
• How can you show kindness to your body? What are things you can do to keep your body healthy and strong? How is going swimming helpful for your body?
• Why does Maddie say you should never stick your hands in someone else’s belly?

Related Resources

Appreciating Our Bodies: A Body Scan with Gratitude from Greater Good in Education

Belly Breathing from EASEL Lab

Creative Collage Lesson for All Students from The Art of Education