At Operation Respect we believe that all young people deserve, and have the right, to learn in a safe, respectful, and caring community. For those of you who have already begun work to create such an environment, the Don’t Laugh at Me curriculum can add extra passion and new dimensions to that effort. For those of you who are unsure of where to start, but who know that such a community of learning is what you seek, Don’t Laugh at Me is the perfect way to begin. First published in 2000 and revised in 2016, Don’t Laugh at Me lessons are based on the Resolving Conflict Creatively Program developed by Educators for Social Responsibility and teach life long social, ethical, and emotional skills.
With music and other integrated arts activities included in each lesson, links to Common Core Standards, and grade level specific modifications, Don’t Laugh at Me engages students in experiences and learning through four cornerstone themes:
Together the lessons of these themes build essential skills for reducing bullying and conflict, establishing a peaceful, supportive learning environment, and engaging young people in active participation in their community.