Cooperation

Zax tracks

Drama / Role play

Read the story of the Zax by Dr. Seuss.

Discussion point: It’s foolish to stubbornly refuse to cooperate with others or to refuse to make peace.

“The Zax” by Dr. Seuss is a fun story that reinforces lessons on cooperation. It’s featured in Dr. Seuss’ book, The Sneetches and Other Stories, which you may be able to borrow from your local library.

In the story, two creatures refuse to give way to each other and end up having a freeway built around them. The simple but entertaining storyline will help even very young children understand the foolishness of people (or nations) who are so stubborn that they refuse to make peace. After reading or viewing the story, have your children take turns acting it out. When they get to the impasse, have them say the following Seuss-like rhyme:

We can stand here all day and miss out on our play,
Or we can choose to make way and get on with our day!

Read your choice of the Bible verses provided below and ask your kids how the Zax story might have been different if the Zax had followed the instructions found in the Bible. Pray together and ask God to help you be people who are willing to submit to others, even when you would rather have your own way. At a future time, when one of your children is having difficulty submitting, gently remind him or her of the foolish stubbornness of the Zax.

Relevant Scripture

Proverbs 17:14 “The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.

Proverbs 20:3 “It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife, but every fool will be quarreling.

1 Corinthians 13:4-5 “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful . . .

2 Corinthians 13:11 “Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.