MIMI'S STRATEGY What to do if Louis says you're stupid

By Linda Goudsmit

What should a child do when another child repeatedly calls her a hurtful name?

Louis repeatedly whispers "stupid" to Hildy at school, even after Hildy tries ignoring him and adults intervene. Mimi gives Hildy a simple critical-thinking test: Is what this person saying true? Hildy learns that she cannot control what Louis says, but she definitely can control how she responds, and she practices not allowing his words to take over her emotions.

Mimi's Strategy: "Saying something does NOT make it true."

What children will learn:
- Test hurtful statements instead of automatically believing them.
- Separate facts from another person's opinion or insult.
- Focus on the response you can control.
- Practice using a calm, confident strategy when faced with repeated unkind words.
Perfect for:
- Homeschool and public-school families discussing character, truth, and self-command.
- Homeschool and public-school educators teaching children to question unsupported statements.
- Parents helping children respond to name-calling without escalating conflict.
- Grandparents who want a practical story about confidence and judgment.

Part of the growing Mimi's Strategy series, an expanding collection of illustrated books by Linda Goudsmit that turn everyday childhood problems into opportunities to stop, think, and choose a successful strategy to solve each problem. Designed for ages 3-8, the series gives families and educators a warm, repeatable way to talk about responsibility, independence, competence, self-control, critical thinking, and family life.

"Learning to think strategically rather than react emotionally is a valuable skill that will empower any child throughout his or her life. Plus, I have yet to meet the child who would prefer a reprimand to a kiss." - Linda Goudsmit

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 195325506X
• ISBN13: 9781953255068
• Release Date: January 2021
• Publisher: Contrapoint Publishing
• Length: 44 Pages
• Weight: 0.66 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.0" x 8.0"
• Age Range: 3 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Kindergarten to Grade 3