A Friend for All

Girl helping classmates in a classroom in Indonesia, representing empathy and inclusion on a book cover

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PARENT-TEACHER GUIDE

A Friend for All

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Country: Indonesia

Author: Rizqia Sadida

Illustrator: Dian Kristiani

Ages: 8–10

Publisher: Room to Read

Story Source: Literacy cloud

About The Story

Nabila, a young girl from Indonesia, wasn’t just curious about the world—she wanted to change it. Growing up, she found inspiration in the work of Mrs. Linda Gumelar, a national leader known for her compassion and service. Determined to follow in her footsteps, Nabila decided to take action herself. She founded the SAFE movement—Search, Approach, Forum, Empathy—to help children dealing with challenges like bullying, discrimination, or emotional distress. Through listening, supporting, and acting with kindness, Nabila became a friend for all. This real-life story reminds us that young people can be powerful changemakers—and that it takes just one person to make someone feel seen and supported.

Themes

Family & Friends

Culture & Tradition

Sub Themes

Livelihood & Occupations

Gift-giving

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

Recognize that no matter where they live, children all over the world often face discrimination and biases—and learn how kindness and empathy can make a difference.
Understand how children can support peers who are having a hard time.
Reflect on what it means to be a good friend and ally.
Explore how SAFE helps us notice and care for others.
Learn the value of empathy and action over judgment or silence

Lesson Plan

Children will read about Nabila and explore the meaning of SAFE.
Through discussion and role-play, they will practice standing up for others and building friendships across differences.

Activities

SAFE Comic Strip – Draw a 4-panel comic showing a problem, SAFE action, and the resolution.
Who’s That Backpack? – Guess the story of a mystery character by examining items in a bag.
Role-Play a Rescue – Act out a SAFE moment: e.g., a new child is left out of a game— what would you do?
Friendship Chain – Write a kind action on a strip of paper, link it to others’ ideas and form a chain.
Inspiration Wall - Research Mrs. Linda Gumelar and discuss how role models can shape our dreams. Students can draw or write about someone who inspires them

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

Have you ever seen someone being left out?
What would you do if you saw someone being teased or sad?

During reading

What made Nabila notice her classmates?
How did she come up with the SAFE steps?
How did others respond to her idea?

After reading

Why is empathy important in school?
How can you be a SAFE friend?
What stops people from reaching out—and how can we change that?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 3 — Good Health and Well-being

The story promotes emotional well-being and support systems for children .

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Promotes inclusive education and emotional well-being at school

SDG 5 – Gender Equality

Empowers girls like Nabila to become changemakers.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Encourages support for children who face bullying or exclusion.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions

Builds peaceful, respectful, and empathetic communities in classrooms

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