Speak up and Get Along!: Learn the Mighty Might, Thought Chop, and More Tools to Make Friends, Stop Teasing, and Feel Good about Yourself by Scott Cooper

From the Publisher

What if every kid had a handy toolbox of ways to get along with others? That’s just what this book is: a collection of 21 concrete strategies kids can pull out and use to express themselves, build relationships, end arguments and fights, halt bullying, and beat unhappy feelings. Like the Mighty Might, which takes all the fun out of teasing. And the Thought Chop, which helps kids resist self-defeating thoughts. And the Squeaky Wheel, a type of persistence that gets results. And the Coin Toss, a simple way to resolve small conflicts. Each tool is clearly described, illustrated with true-to-life examples, and accompanied by dialogue and lines kids can practice and use. Stories and anecdotes show each tool in action. A terrific resource for any young person and any adult committed to teaching social skills. Includes a note to adults.

Youth Today

"A handy resource for all youth workers and educators."

Mary Loftus - Children's Literature

It is no secret that bullying is a problem that many teachers and parents would love to solve. This book attempts to give kids the tools to solve problems with bullies on their own. The ideas are organized in chapters according to birds: "The Tools of the Blue Jay," and "The Tools of the Dove," for example. This may not be the most effective metaphor, but an explanation is provided in the introduction and at the opening of each chapter. Hopefully, trying to keep all the birds straight will not distract readers from some useful information and problem-solving tools. Tips include strategies for dealing with name-calling and put-downs, ideas for starting and making conversation, and sample dialog for practicing each tool. Strategies are given catchy names like "The Mighty Might," and "The Thought Chop." Between the clever names and the birds, hopefully the quality content that this book does contain will not be overlooked by readers. Although some of the practice dialog and sample scenarios may sound a bit contrived, the importance of being able to stand up for oneself comes through. 2005, Free Spirit Publishing, Ages 8 to 14.

What People Are Saying

Youthworker
"Excellent communication book. . . . Do-able skills written in kid-friendly vernacular."

Product Details