Speaking Up When You're the Only One
Winston Churchill (1874-1965) was a British Prime Minister who led the country during World War Two. But his most important lesson for children isn't about being a leader — it's about speaking up when everyone else stays quiet.
In the 1930s, Churchill saw danger coming. He warned that Britain needed to prepare, but almost everyone ignored him. Politicians laughed at him. Newspapers mocked him. He was called "yesterday's man" and told to be quiet.
But Churchill knew he was right. So he kept speaking up. For ten whole years, he stood alone, saying what needed to be said even when it made him unpopular.
When war finally came in 1939, Britain realized Churchill had been right all along. They needed his courage and his voice. He became Prime Minister and helped lead Britain through its darkest hour.
Sometimes you have to say what needs saying, even if others disagree
Churchill kept going for 10 years when everyone ignored him
It takes courage to be the only one who speaks
You don't need everyone to agree with you to do what's right
The Girl Who Wouldn't Shut Up is inspired by Churchill's courage to speak when standing alone.
When Edie's village allotment is under threat and everyone else gives up, her "big mouth" is exactly what's needed. A story about finding your voice for ages 5-7.
Read Free SampleThis is the period when Churchill was out of power and ignored. For KS1 children, this teaches that sometimes doing the right thing means being unpopular — and that's okay.
Churchill didn't speak up to be difficult or get attention. He spoke up because he genuinely believed Britain was in danger. This teaches children the difference between speaking up for attention versus speaking up because something matters.
When war came, Britain realized they needed Churchill's voice and courage. This shows children that persistence pays off — not because you "win" but because truth matters.
For ages 5-7, focus on Churchill's wilderness years rather than the war itself. The lesson is about speaking up when you're the only one, not about military history.
"Churchill was always loved and popular" — No! For 10 years he was mocked and ignored. This is actually the most important part of his story for children.
"Speaking up means being loud" — Not always. Churchill spoke clearly and persistently, not just loudly.
"You should always speak up about everything" — No. Churchill spoke up about something he truly believed mattered. There's a difference between being contrary and being courageous.
Lesson plans, discussion guides, and activity sheets for teaching British values through real heroes.