Raj’s Rule (For the Bathroom at School)

Raj has started school, but he is not able to fully enjoy his day. Raj has a rule that he does not use the bathroom at school, and he adjusts his behaviour to ensure he can follow his rule. He lists his several tips that he follows to help him stay out of the bathroom, tips such as staying away from a funny classmate who might make him laugh when he is trying not to pee. When a sneaky sneeze forces Raj to break his rule and use the school bathroom, he is finally free to enjoy his day at school without bathroom anxiety. After a great day at school, he makes a new rule—he goes when he needs to, even at school.

The author, Lana Button, is an early childhood educator. Her experience with children is clear in the compassionate way she deals with Raj’s anxieties. The text is often written in rhymes. There is an implied omission of the word “pee” in one rhyming pair, but there is no description of bodily functions beyond saying Raj has “to go”.

Hatem Aly, who previously illustrated the Newbery Honor book The Inquisitor’s Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog, has created playful comic illustrations to elaborate on Raj`s tips. The illustrations capture a diverse group of classmates in a modern and welcoming classroom setting.

Raj’s Rule (For the Bathroom at School) will be enjoyed by many young children and will also be helpful for children who, like Raj, are struggling with bathroom issues at new locations.