Using Little Ear, Big Heart in Classrooms
Little Ear, Big Heart is designed to spark conversations about differences, empathy, and confidence. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or counselor, this book can be a powerful tool.
Get the Book
The first edition of Little Ear, Big Heart is available now on Amazon while we prepare the upcoming 2nd edition.
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Discussion Questions for Young Readers
After reading Little Ear, Big Heart, consider these questions to deepen understanding and empathy:
About Sam's Story
- How does Sam play Hide-and-Seek differently than other kids? What special skills does he use?
- What does it mean to "listen with your heart"?
- Why do you think Sam says, "I wouldn't change a thing"?
- How did Camila show that she was a good friend to Sam?
About Differences
- What makes you different from other people? What makes you special?
- Have you ever felt different from others? How did it feel?
- What can we do when we notice someone is different from us?
- Why is it important to celebrate our differences?
About Standing Up
- Why did Billy say Sam looked weird? Do you think Billy understood Microtia?
- How did Sam respond when Billy laughed? Was it brave?
- What did Sam teach the class about being different?
- How can we stand up for ourselves or others when someone is unkind?
Classroom Activities
Activity 1: Different is Awesome Posters
Grade Level: K-3
Materials: Paper, markers, crayons
Instructions:
- Have each student draw a picture of themselves
- Ask them to write or draw one thing that makes them unique
- Create a classroom display titled "Different is Awesome" with all the portraits
- Celebrate that every person is different and special
Learning Goal: Students recognize and celebrate their own uniqueness and that of their peers.
Activity 2: Five Senses Detective Game
Grade Level: PreK-2
Materials: Various objects, blindfolds (optional)
Instructions:
- Like Sam, students become "detectives" using different senses
- Set up stations where students identify objects using only touch, smell, or sight
- Discuss how we can use multiple senses to understand the world
- Talk about how everyone experiences the world differently
Learning Goal: Students understand that there are many ways to perceive and interact with the world.
Activity 3: Empathy Role Play
Grade Level: 1-4
Materials: None
Instructions:
- In small groups, students act out scenarios where someone is different or left out
- Discuss how the person might feel and what a good friend would do
- Practice kind responses to questions about differences
- Role-play standing up for someone (like Sam stood up for himself)
Learning Goal: Students practice empathy and develop skills for inclusive behavior.
Activity 4: My Superpower
Grade Level: K-5
Materials: Paper, art supplies
Instructions:
- Discuss how Sam's "superpower" is his ability to observe and listen with his heart
- Ask students to identify their own "superpower" (a strength, skill, or quality)
- Students create a superhero version of themselves with their superpower
- Share and celebrate each other's superpowers
Learning Goal: Students recognize their strengths and appreciate the unique strengths of others.
For Parents: Talking to Your Child About Differences
Children are naturally curious. When they notice someone who looks or acts differently, they will have questions.
Do's and Don'ts
DO:
- Answer questions honestly and simply
- Use correct terminology (like "Microtia" instead of vague terms)
- Emphasize that different is not bad, it's just different
- Read books like Little Ear, Big Heart to normalize differences
- Model respectful curiosity and kindness
- Teach your child to ask the person directly if appropriate, rather than staring or whispering
DON'T:
- Shush or scold your child for noticing differences
- Act uncomfortable or avoid the topic
- Use pity-based language ("Oh, that poor child")
- Make assumptions about what someone can or cannot do
- Teach your child to ignore or pretend not to notice differences
For Teachers: Creating an Inclusive Classroom
When you have a student with Microtia or any visible difference, you have an opportunity to create a culture of acceptance and curiosity.
Proactive Strategies
- Read inclusive books regularly: Make Little Ear, Big Heart and other diverse books part of your routine, not just when addressing a specific situation
- Celebrate differences year-round: Create ongoing discussions about uniqueness, not one-off lessons
- Partner with families: Ask parents how they'd like you to address their child's difference with classmates
- Empower the child: Some children may want to share about their difference; others may not. Follow their lead
- Address unkind behavior immediately: Treat comments about differences the same way you'd address any unkind behavior
Classroom Accommodations for Microtia
Most children with unilateral Microtia do not require formal accommodations, but consider:
- Preferential seating: Allow the child to sit where they can hear best (usually with their hearing ear toward the class)
- Visual supports: Use visual aids and written instructions alongside verbal directions
- Noise reduction: Minimize background noise during instruction when possible
- Check for understanding: Periodically confirm the child heard and understood instructions
- Buddy system: For fire drills or loud environments, pair with a buddy who can help ensure communication
Books About Differences & Disabilities
Expand your library with other books that celebrate differences:
- "We're All Wonders" by R.J. Palacio - About facial differences and kindness
- "All Are Welcome" by Alexandra Penfold - About diversity and inclusion
- "The Sneetches" by Dr. Seuss - Classic story about accepting differences
- "Just Ask!" by Sonia Sotomayor - About children with various disabilities
- "Different is Awesome" by Ryan Haack - Celebrating neurodiversity
- "I Am Enough" by Grace Byers - About self-love and acceptance
Additional Educational Resources
Teaching Tolerance (Learning for Justice)
Free classroom resources for teaching about diversity, equity, and inclusion across all grade levels.
learningforjustice.org
Understood.org
Resources for parents and educators supporting children with learning and attention differences. Includes classroom strategies and accommodation ideas.
understood.org
Children's Craniofacial Association - Educator Resources
Specific resources for teachers working with students who have craniofacial differences.
ccakids.org
PACER Center - Bullying Prevention
Resources for preventing bullying and creating inclusive school environments, including materials specifically about appearance-based bullying.
pacer.org/bullying
Creating a Presentation About Microtia
Some families choose to have their child (or parent) present to the class about Microtia. Here's a simple framework:
Sample Student Presentation Outline
- What is Microtia? "Microtia means 'little ear.' I was born with a smaller ear, but I can hear just fine!"
- How I hear: Explain briefly how sound works or show/demo a hearing device if applicable
- What's cool about it: "Like Sam in the book, I've learned to be a great observer!"
- How to be a good friend: "You can ask me questions! Just be kind."
- Q&A: Allow classmates to ask respectful questions
Note: Only do this if the child is comfortable. Never pressure a child to educate their peers.