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Zadda Learns the Power of Hopetimism

By the 2021 Southern Connecticut State University Field Hockey Team

Originally created as a team-building project and sold as a fundraiser for the team’s program. Enjoy this refreshed story about hope, teamwork, and finding good things on hard days.

Zadda Learns the Power of Hopetimism book cover

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Zadda Learns theZadda Learns the Power ofPower of HopetimismHopetimism by The 2021 Southern Connecticut Stateby The 2021 Southern Connecticut State University Field Hockey TeamUniversity Field Hockey Team

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Draw. Talk. Discover.

Choose an activity. Draw, write, talk, act it out, or pass.

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Two things can be true

Zadda feels disappointed after the game. Draw or tell how he feels. Then notice one thing he did well. A hard feeling and a good thing can both belong.

Try together: What would help him right now: company, a rest, a kind word, or something else?

My three good things

Zadda remembers getting up, stealing the ball, and scoring. Draw, write, or tell up to three good things from your day. A small effort or a person who helped counts. One is enough, and you can pass.

Try together: What would you like to remember tomorrow?

A teammate's words

A teammate misses a shot and says, 'I can't do it.' Draw two speech bubbles. In one, ask how they feel. In the other, offer help without deciding for them. Try: 'Would you like company or help?'

Try together: Take turns being the teammate and the listener. Leave time for an answer.

Our zig-zag challenge

With a grown-up, clear a small space and mark a zig-zag route with paper. Roll a soft ball, move a toy, trace with a finger, or describe the route. Take turns choosing a way everyone can join. Sticks and running are optional; a tabletop works too.

Try together: Draw your route below. What change made the game easier to join?

Design a game with room

Hope uses a helper wing. Different players can use different tools and ways to play. Invent a game for two teammates. Draw the space, tools, and one rule that helps both take part. Ask each player what works for them.

Try together: Try your rule. What would the players change after one turn?

Our community, our strengths

This story began with a field hockey team creating a book together to support its program. Think of a group you belong to. Draw the people and the strengths each brings. Plan one small way to help together, such as welcoming someone or sharing a skill.

Try together: Who could you ask what help is wanted? Choose one first step with a grown-up.