MY FRIENDS
I help them work and play
I use kind words every day
I cooperate and share
That's how I show my friends I care.

MY SCHOOL
I keep it nice and neat
I throw away trash, I wipe my feet
I put things back where they belong
I'm careful all day long

It's the way to be, it's the way to live
Positively, positively, positive
When you care and care and care again
It works in every situation you're in
First yourself, then the others there
Then the environment you share
Everything is handled with care.

Tips for Parents                                   

• Ask you child, "What does it mean if a grown-up talks about rules? What rules do you have at home and school? Why are rules so important?"
• During the word "three," hold up three fingers
  During the word "myself," hug yourselves
  During the word "friends," clasp your hands together in front of you (like holding hands)
• For older children this Hip-Hop or rapping version gives them the opportunity to make up their own "rule rhymes" to recite during the instrumental intervals of this song.  
• Write and Review Rules Together - Children are more likely to respect rules when they are involved in making the rules.  Together fill out a rules form for "Rules at Home" and "Rules at School". Discuss which are different and which are the same. Once rules have been established it is helpful to review them regularly by charting ways in which the child respected the three rules. 
• Pick a Rule and Make a Match - Obviously there will be more than three rules to follow, especially if the children help to brainstorm ideas for prospective rules.  However, all of them will fit under these three principal rules.  Write each child developed rule on a sticky note and together decide which of the three principal rules it goes under.

This song is available in the following formats:

• Download this song in MP3 format
• Download all 12 Songs of Self-Control songs
• Receive the CD via Mail (shipping/handling charges apply)