Page 28 - SB-Rules are your Friends

WORKSHEET
In this first part, Cosmos illustrates that rules are designed to, “make your life easier and better.” Even though you may not like the rules, most rules are based on Good Thinking. Because they are based on Good Thinking, you should obey them, like them or not.
Cosmos points out that humans have a lot of rules because it is easy for humans to develop bad habits. The eating sweets before a meal are an example of a human rule not necessary for animals because they seldom if ever get to eat sweets. The point Cosmos is making is that rules are not necessary if there is no problem or potential for a problem. Rules do not spontaneously occur and are seldom “just because”, even though adults may use that as a justification.
The taking turns rule of the migrating birds has to do with not allowing any of the birds to get too tired. By taking turns in the lead, they all stay fresh and complete the journey. The Rule in the story is based on Good Thinking. Cosmos asks why do humans have a rule about taking turns. Most children know it is about sharing and being fair. They may also be able to recognize that they don’t always like the rule, particularly when they have to give up their turn.
You want them to understand that they are on the positive end of this rule from time to time and that they would not like it if they never got to take a turn. Consequently, the rule is based on Good Thinking and promotes OK emotions and Thumbs Up behavior.
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