It was the first day back after winter break. Jamie sat quietly, watching as friends talked and laughed. Everyone in Jamie’s class was excited to share what they had done.
But there was someone new in class today—a boy named Sam, who had just moved from another city. Sam looked nervous, sitting alone at his desk.
Jamie noticed Sam from across the room. Sam wore a different kind of jacket than the others and seemed unsure of what to do. Jamie wondered if Sam felt nervous because everything here was so new.
“I wonder if he’s feeling scared,” Jamie thought. Jamie wanted to go over and say hello, but wasn't sure how Sam would react.
The teacher says, "Find a partner for our activity!" Jamie could partner with Sam or go with one of his usual friends.
Jamie decided to ask Sam to be his partner. As they started working together, Jamie noticed Sam was quiet and didn't know the game they were playing. Jamie felt a little awkward.
It was easier to play with his usual friends. But then, Jamie thought about how Sam might feel being the new kid. Jamie began explaining the game step by step.
Jamie wonders if it was okay to leave Sam struggling.
Later that day, Jamie saw Sam sitting by himself again during snack time. Jamie remembered how lonely it felt to be left out. Jamie took a deep breath and decided to invite Sam to sit at the table with his other friends. Sam smiled for the first time that day.
During break time, Jamie’s friends weren’t sure if they should include Sam in their soccer game. Some of them thought he might not be very good. Jamie is the last to decide.