Abracadabra!: The Magic of Trying

This clever book teaches children how to face challenges and keep trying, despite setbacks, as a group of birds learn to fly. Today was an important day at the little birds’ school. Today was the day they all learned how to fly! They jumped off the branch, opened their wings, and…flew! All of the little birds have learned to fly…except Little Owl. The others explain that it’s easy: all he has to do is say “abracadabra!” At first, it doesn’t work, and Little Owl thinks the “magic” word is broken! But as he gets better and better, he realizes that the real magic is in himself. Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers by Ara J. Schmitt, PhD, that discusses ways to develop perseverance with your child. Excerpt: The development of perseverance is complex and unique to each child. The child’s environment, opportunity to take on new challenges, and the presence of an encouraging support system all play a role. The development of perseverance is aided by three key psychological concepts: strategies, effortful control, and a growth-oriented mindset. These concepts are crucial whether the challenge is posed by a classroom teacher, an athletic coach, a music instructor, or you!… Some kids naturally persevere in the face of challenges, but most kids learn the skills necessary to persevere through the loving support of caregivers. By fostering task-specific strategies, effortful control, and a growth-oriented mindset, caregivers can help children become happy and successful adults!