Omar and the SuperTails: First Day of School was written for every child who has ever stood at the door of something new and wondered, "Do I belong here?" Through rhyme, warmth, and a cast of unforgettable animal friends — each with their own unique difference — Omar discovers that being different isn't a weakness. It's a superpower.
This guide was designed to be used the same day you receive the book — no prep required. Discussion questions, vocabulary, writing prompts, SEL alignment, and ADHD support materials are all included. We hope Omar becomes a permanent part of your classroom library.
"What is YOUR superpower? Draw a picture of yourself using it."
"Omar almost didn't go through the door. Write about a time you did something even though you were nervous. What happened?"
"Draw a picture of a time you helped someone feel like they belong. What did you do?"
"Which SuperTail is most like you, and why? Use at least two details from the book."
"If YOU were a new SuperTail, what would your superpower be? Describe yourself as a character in the story."
"What does it feel like when someone makes you feel included? What does it feel like when someone leaves you out?"
| CASEL Competency | How Omar Addresses It | Key Story Moment | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Awareness | Omar identifies his own feelings of nervousness. Learns his differences are a source of strength, not shame. | "Omar feels small…" / Discovering his superpower | PreKK1st |
| Social Awareness | Each SuperTail models a visible difference — wheelchair, glasses, ADHD, height. Omar learns to see and honor others. | Meeting each SuperTail for the first time | K1st2nd |
| Relationship Skills | The SuperTails model friendship built on celebrating difference rather than sameness. Omar learns to build belonging. | The SuperTails welcoming Omar to their group | PreKK1st |
| Self-Management | Omar manages first-day anxiety by showing up anyway. Models that courage is action despite fear. | Omar walking through the school doors | K1st2nd |
| Responsible Decision-Making | Omar chooses connection over isolation. Models prosocial choices — reaching out, trusting others, building community. | Omar joining the SuperTails at the end | 1st2nd |
The book frames differences — including hyperactivity, boundless energy, and thinking differently — as superpowers, not problems. Use this framing directly with students who have ADHD: "Omar's friends aren't broken. They're different. And so are you — in the best way."
Many children with ADHD have never seen themselves in a picture book. Read Omar's story specifically naming that one of the characters has a lot of energy and thinks differently — and that THIS is their superpower. Watch for recognition in students' faces.
Keep movement breaks between pages for high-energy learners. Allow students to hold a fidget during the read-aloud. Pause frequently to check for understanding rather than reading straight through.
Omar works beautifully in small counseling groups focused on self-esteem, belonging, and school anxiety. Read it at the start of a new group to establish norms around difference and inclusion. Dr. Karla Lloyd, School Psychologist, recommends this book specifically for this use.
A boy works up the courage to jump off the diving board. Beautiful exploration of fear, courage, and a supportive parent. Perfect companion to Omar's themes of bravery and showing up.
A new student from Korea worries her name is too hard for American classmates to pronounce. Explores identity, belonging, and the power of being accepted exactly as you are.
A powerful story about a girl who regrets not being kinder to a new classmate. Explores the long-term impact of inclusion — and exclusion. Best for Grade 1–2.
Brian is always overlooked — until a new student sees him. A gentle, powerful story about inclusion and what it feels like to finally be seen. Directly mirrors Omar's belonging arc.
A boy and his grandmother ride the bus through their city after church. A lyrical, Newbery-winning book about finding beauty in difference and the value of every person's story.
Author visits bring Omar and the SuperTails to life for your students. Nicky Girl offers interactive read-alouds, SEL workshops, and Q&A sessions for K–2 classrooms. Virtual and in-person options available.
Class sets, signed copies, and full educator kits available for school orders.
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