🌍 Respecting Others Through Story Time

The Sandwich Swap 

by Queen Rania Al Abdullah & Kelly DiPucchio

Social Justice Element: Element 2 - Respect for Others

💰WHERE TO BUY💰

Purchase The Sandwich Swap on Bookshop.org

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Lily and Salma are best friends who share almost everything - except lunch. Lily eats peanut butter and jelly, while Salma eats hummus and pita. At first they make fun of each other's food, which hurts their feelings and even starts a food fight at school. But when they finally try each other's sandwiches, they realize that difference does not mean "bad." In the end, the whole class celebrates new tastes and friendships, learning that respecting differences can bring everyone closer together. 

📚TEACHER REVIEW📚

🌟CONNECTION TO SOCIAL JUSTICE ELEMENT 2 RESPECTING OTHERS

• Shows how differences in culture and diversity (even something as small as lunch) can cause misunderstandings
• Models empathy and open-mindedness: trying new things instead of judging them
• Emphasizes that respect means accepting others without giving up your own identity

🍎CLASSROOM USE IDEAS - Suggested Grades: K-2

Lesson Plan: "My Plate, Your Plate"

1. Read Aloud & Discuss
1. Why did Lily think Salma's food was weird?
2. How do you think Salma felt when her food was teased?
3. What happened when they swapped sandwiches?
2. Food Swap Activity
1. Students bring (or draw ✎) a food special to their family/culture
2. Share with classmates
3. Venn Diagram Compare and Contrast
1. Chart similarities and differences between food
2. Show how both sides are valuable
4. Writing/Drawing
1. Draw or write about a time you tried something new. How did it make you feel?
5. Respect Anchor Chart
1. Work together to make a class poster with rules for respecting others:
1. Be curious, not critical
2. Celebrate differences
3. Respect everyone's traditions

💡WHY THIS BOOK MATTERS📚

The Sandwich Swap is a simple yet powerful reminder that respect starts with small steps - like listening, learning, and being open to new experiences. In the classroom, it creates a safe space for conversations about empathy, culture, and kindness.