Juanita’s family lived in Italy where they had a small restaurant. She was very happy living in Italy. When she found out her dad was moving them to Canada to expand the business, Juanita became very sad. 

Juanita did not want to go to Canada. She did not know how to speak English fluently. 

I don’t want to go

At their new home, Juanita’s parents told her that she will start school in one week. 

Honey, you will go to your new school next week!

That is when Juanita’s worries started. She was nervous to go to school as she felt that she would not fit in and embarrass herself because she could not speak English fluently

What if I can’t make friends?

What if no one likes me?

What if I am different from everyone else?

What if no one understands me?

What if I speak with an accent? 

Juanita did everything she could think of to try and avoid going to school…

She hid from her parents…

Juanita where are you! It’s time to go get you some clothes for school 

I hope she can’t find me

She threw away all her clothes…

Juanita where are the new clothes your mother bought for you?

What clothes? 

And she ripped apart all her school supplies.

Juanita who did this?

The dog did it

Mom and dad were worried about Juanita and how she was avoiding going to school. They decided to have a family meeting and talk about what was wrong. 

Juanita told them all about her worries and why she didn’t want to go to school.

I’m scared that I am going to be different. I can’t even speak English. 

Juanita’s parents told her that it is not bad to be different and that it means you are unique. Everyone is different in their own way. Being different is a superpower.

There is nothing wrong in being different 

Mom and dad asked Juanita what they could do to help her. Juanita asked if they could help her with learning English.