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Sherwood Heights Second Graders Explore Mindfulness Through New Children’s Book
In October, students in Paula Rousseau’s second grade class at Sherwood Heights Elementary School spent time diving into a newly published children’s book. It quickly grew into a creative project. The students became very enthusiastic over the powerful message. They loved the idea of recreating his\her own page of reflection. Cosmo’s Colors, written by local author Suzanne Posey, tells the story of a vibrant young chameleon who loves to turn into a variety of his favorite colors. When Cosmo faces an unexpected medical challenge, he feels worried and unsure of how to move forward. Through his journey, he learns a new way to use his colors—one that helps him feel stronger, calmer, and more hopeful.
Inspired by Cosmo’s inspirational experience, Rousseau designed an activity to help her students understand the power of mindfulness and emotional expression. The class explored Cosmo’s technique and discussed how acknowledging and sharing feelings can make difficult moments easier to navigate. Using the book as a mentor text, students created their own illustrated pages showing how they embrace their emotions and apply a growth mindset in everyday life. Each child compared themselves to Cosmo, writing about how they might handle their own challenge with a specific color. Their colorful chameleon artwork showcased both artistic talent and thoughtful self-reflection.
Posey’s story grew from her daughter’s real-life experience with childhood cancer, a journey that shaped the book’s message of courage and hope. Rousseau shared that this connection resonated deeply with her students, helping them see that, like Cosmo, anyone can draw on imagination, positivity, and belief to overcome obstacles.
The project brought literature, art, and social-emotional learning together in a meaningful way—leaving the second graders with both beautiful creations and valuable tools for navigating their own feelings.
