Miss Primary

When I started teaching in the US in 2020, one of the first read alouds we did in first grade (UK Year 2 equivalent) was 100 Dresses by Eleanor Estes. Every year it’s the first story time book I share with a class as a valuable teaching tool for kindness, empathy and the power of words.

This is the beginning of a series of books that I want to share with you and recommend for your classes. There is so much emphasis on teaching skills and rushing though a school day when my favourite teaching moments come in those small quite bursts where we are all huddled around a book. I usually find time after lunch break and just before the end of the day to read for 5-10 minutes. It’s a great way to reconnect and reengage with students before a transition to learning or leaving.

What is ‘100 Dresses’ about?

100 Dresses is a powerful and thought-provoking story that impactfully explores bullying, kindness, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. This is done in a gentle way, provoking insightful discussions with students.

The story follows Wanda Petronski, a quiet girl who is often teased by her classmates for wearing the same dress everyday. Despite the unkindness she faces, Wanda dreams of owning 100 beautiful dresses. This simple dream sparks empathy and understanding, as my students begin to see the world through Wanda’s eyes.

The illustrations in this book are simple yet effective, helping to bring the story to life. My class were captivated by the characters and their emotions, which made for deep discussions about empathy and friendship. It also highlights wealth disparities and how we shouldn’t judge or treat someone differently for the things they do or don’t have.

What age group ‘100 Dresses’ suitable for?

I highly recommend 100 Dresses for all age groups really. It is careful its approach to important topics for my first grade classrooms but would also reach older primary aged students. It’s a valuable tool for teaching children about kindness, empathy, and the power of words. This book has the potential to inspire positive change in our young learners and encourage them to be upstanders, not bystanders.