No No Square Written by Jai'Colby'E Kirvin

Written by Jai'Colby'E Kirvin, Illustrated by Jai'Colby'E Kirvin

 

Summary:

*“No No Square” is a children's book written by Jai'Colby'E Kirvin. This book was written by an African American author who brings awareness to rape in African American boys and girls. This book educates children to say “no” when people try to touch them inappropriately. This book teaches children what to say and do when strangers, family members, or other kids try to sexually assault them at an early age. This book allows children to set boundaries rather it be with other children or adults. The two characters in this book are Maya and Kobe, they both have encounters with monsters. They were taught how to properly set boundaries and not allow anyone to touch them inappropriately.

 

Element 5: Raising Awareness

*This book coincides with element five “raising awareness.” In the African American community, rape is one of the common social justice issues present. Rape not only affects girls, but it affects boys as well. Many boys never report rape or even tell their stories, therefore mental health issues / trauma can be seen in black men. This book raises awareness about these issues, educates young readers, and gives good steps to prevent bad things from happening. This book always brings awareness to the word “no.” It teaches children to say no when they’re feeling uncomfortable or when someone is trying to assault them.

 

Activity:

*This activity can be taught for kids in Pre-K to twelfth grade. My goal for the activity is to teach students about consent. The word sex is removed when teaching consent to elementary students, the end goal is to help prevent sexual harassment and assault by teaching students about personal boundaries. When it comes to children, I know that rape is a sensitive topic. I would first go over what consent means, and the importance of asking permission. The students will be educated o. what consent sounds like. For example, :sure,”  “yes,” “okay.” What consent does not sound like. For example, “stop,” “no,” “move.” When consent is needed.  For example, kissing, touching, hugging. What to say when consent wasn’t given. For example, “no,” “I don’t feel comfortable,” “ask me again later.” Students can be non-extreme questions; the goal is for them to understand consent and use it in. different scenarios when they feel uncomfortable.

 

Links to purchase “No No Square book.”

* https://store.bookbaby.com/bookshop/book/index.aspx?bookURL=No-No-Square

* https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-no-square-jaicolbye-kirvin/1140344458

* https://www.target.com/p/no-no-square-by-jai-colby-e-kirvin-paperback/-/A-85091266