Get Along Monsters

K-Gr 4—The Get Along Monsters are cute cartoon characters who help introduce difficult topics and possible solutions to social problems. These characters are balanced with live-action scenarios and narration by a young lady who helps demonstrate what youngsters can do when confronted by a bully. For example, when Andrew is constantly picked on and harassed by Tony, he finally gets angry enough to fight. Both boys get hurt and get into trouble. An alternative scenario shows Andrew walking away when he is bullied. Other options available when confronted by a bully are demonstrated, such as using words instead of getting angry, confidently telling the bully to stop pushing people around, standing together with friends to verbally confront the individual, and asking for help from a grown-up when the bully is bigger or when personal property is at risk. Young children may not be able to differentiate between the types of risks and decide which approach to take, plus the possibility of retaliation still remains. However, this clear and lively lesson, with upbeat music and realistic scenarios, will help viewers understand that it is important to be confident and stand up to bullies. This program can help initiate discussions about non-violent behavior with students who have no other model of appropriate social skills.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY