Authors created these books years ago while working as school counselors because they could not find resources in stores to meet their students' needs. After many requests from parents and counselors to publish these books, the "I CAN!" series was created.
Authors have almost 30 years combined professional experience working with children and have used these books with a variety of children, including typically-developing children experiencing adjustments and children with diagnosed disabilities.
Using visuals and simple language, the "I CAN!" books provide explicit social skill instruction. Authors take a concept such as self-regulation and break the concept into smaller parts, teaching each micro-skill individually. "I CAN!" books identify common obstacles experienced by children and concretely describe strategies for handling these obstacles.
Based on authors' research using these books with diverse children, children were better able to name appropriate behaviors and practiced these behaviors in natural settings, including the school cafeteria, playground, and classroom. Children also reported fewer discipline referrals and better peer socialization.
Strengths of the "I CAN!" series: Simple language, graphics and visual cues Interactive: each book can be copied and individualized Copied books can be given to teachers and parents to practice with the child Practicing and reading the books in many settings helps the child generalize skills Consistent message reinforced by all adults working with child Effective (research states repetition is crucial in learning social skills).
Adults, you can read these books to children, as well as re-read the book and role-play scenarios to practice. Pages of the book can be copied and placed in a child's school notebook, or in their bedroom as reminders.
The "I CAN!" books can also be read and practiced in small and large group settings. The "I CAN!" series can be used with typically developing children experiencing temporary challenges:
- Friendship
- Anxiety
- Aggression
- Anger Management
- Conflict
- Coping
- Impulse Control
- Life Transitions
- Self-Esteem
- Shy and Non-Assertiveness
- English Language Learners
The "I CAN!" series can also be used with children struggling with:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Asperger Syndrome
- Pervasive Developmental Disorders
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Auditory Processing Disorder
- Language Processing Disorder
- Emotional Disability
- Executive Functioning Disorder
- Learning Disabilities
- Gifted Children