This downloadable resource will help schools, teachers, and families promote kindness, inclusion, and respect with kindergarten and Key Stage 1 children.
How to Use This Resource in Your Classroom
Here is a step-by-step guide to making the most of this song in your classroom, at home, or during Antibullying Week events:
1. Start by introducing the concept of differences. Explain that everyone is unique in how they look, think, and do things—and that’s what makes us special!
2. Sing the song as a group. The familiar tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” makes it easy for kids to pick up.Repeat the song a couple of times to help the children memorise the lyrics. You can divide the verses and have different groups sing each part to involve everyone.
3. Incorporate simple movements to engage the children. Feel free to make up yours or try out these ideas:
- Short or tall: Crouch down for short, Reach up high for tall,
- We are different: Children spread arms wide (as if embracing everyone) and nod happily.
- We are friends in every way: Hold hands in a circle or do a gentle side sway together.
4. After singing, have a brief discussion about what the song means. Ask open-ended questions to get the children thinking.
We Are Different, That’s Okay
(Sing to the Tune of: Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star)
Verse 1:
We are different, that’s okay,
We are friends in every way.
Big or small, short or tall,
We can always play with all.
We are different, that’s okay,
We are friends in every way!
Verse 2:
Some like blue and some like red,
Some like books, and games instead.
Different things we love to do,
But I’m still a friend to you!
We are different, that’s okay,
We are friends in every way!
To make it even easier to use in your classroom, you can download and print out this resource here.
The printable verson includes colourful visuals and the song lyrics to display in the classroom or hand out to families. Perfect for use during Antibullying Week!