Jimmy doesn't follow rules. Not because he's mean—he just doesn't see the point. Walk in the hallway? Running is faster. Stay quiet during stretching? Boring. Freeze when you're tagged? Where's the fun in that? But when his choices leave him hurt and alone, Coach Locke helps him discover something surprising: following rules isn't about being good. It's about being kind. The truth is, Jimmy's pretty likable. He's creative, he loves building things, and he's genuinely confused about why everyone's always on his case. From his perspective, teachers just make up random rules to boss kids around. He doesn't connect his running in the hallway with the bump on his head. He doesn't realize his noisy stretching ruins the calm moment other kids need. He can't see that when he refuses to freeze during freeze tag, he's telling his classmates their fun doesn't matter. Then Coach Locke sits down with him. She doesn't lecture or punish. She just shares something real: "I follow rules too." She tells him about reading pool signs, keeping her hands to herself in crowds, waiting her turn at checkout. Rules aren't about obedience—they're about caring for yourself and the people around you. And that's when it clicks for Jimmy. A classroom management tool that actually works: This back to school book gives teachers and parents the language to explain rules in a way kids understand. Instead of "because I said so," show them through Jimmy's story how following directions connects to kindness, safety, and respect. Perfect for beginning of year expectations, positive discipline conversations, or any time a child asks "why do we have to follow rules?" What kids learn: Rules aren't restrictions—they're how we take care of each other - Following directions shows respect and builds community - Breaking rules doesn't just get you in trouble—it can hurt people - Choosing kindness (even when it's inconvenient) makes YOU feel good - Everyone messes up sometimes—what matters is trying again Perfect for: Back to school classroom behavior lessons (K-5) - Kids who constantly ask "why?" about every rule - Children struggling with listening skills and impulse control - Beginning of year classroom management and expectations - Parents seeking positive discipline strategies - School counselors teaching respectful behavior - PE teachers and coaches building sportsmanship - Social emotional learning curriculum - Children with ADHD or executive function challenges What teachers say: "This is my go-to book for classroom management at the start of every school year. Kids finally understand WHY rules matter." "After reading this, a student said, 'So the rules are like... being nice?' Yes. That's exactly it." "Perfect for children who struggle with following directions. It doesn't shame—it helps them see how their behavior affects others." From Coach Locke, PE teacher for 15+ years: I've taught hundreds of "Jimmys"—smart, energetic kids who aren't trying to be difficult. They just don't understand yet that rules are really about kindness. When you help them see that connection, everything changes. They WANT to follow rules because it feels good to be part of a caring community. This book is the conversation I wish I could have with every child on day one. Part of the Stories of Love Elementary series—where PE class teaches character education and social skills. Following rules makes you feel good. Not because you avoided punishment, but because you were kind. That's what Jimmy learns. That's what your kids will learn too. Ages 4-8 Classroom read aloud Teacher resource Positive behavior support