What's the Problem?: A Story Teaching Problem Solving

by Bryan Smith, Lisa M. Griffin (Illustrator)

Overview

The one thing all of us have in common is that we have to solve problems and challenges of various degrees and complexities.

A lucky few among us always seem to resolve complex problems successfully by thinking critically and logically. Still, even the most talented problem solvers need practice (and experience!) to develop and perfect this skill.

Blake wants to sell his brother, Braden, to another family. Savannah wants to fight Mary over an insult. Braden sooo wants to sneak out of class to play kickball.

The characters in this fast-paced story face conundrums that make each of them consider solutions that are inappropriate, ill-advised or irresponsible.

Fortunately, some good old-fashioned fatherly advice coupled with a tried-and-true strategy for solving problems keeps everyone safe and satisfied. This story introduces and encourages readers to use SODAS (Situation, Options, Disadvantages, Advantages, and Solution) as a way to logically and thoughtfully figure out how to solve any problem, from the silly to the serious.

Award-winning author and school counselor Bryan Smith's teaching style come through in this insightful tale from his wildly popular Executive FUNction book series. The series skillfully weaves skill teaching into humorous story-lines to help readers become flexible thinkers, problem solvers and self-managers. 

Tips for parents and educators are included at the the end of the storybook to help children learn how to become problem-solving pros!

The series also includes:

• What Were You Thinking?
• My Day is Ruined!
• It Was Just Right Here!
• Of Course It's a Big Deal!
• Time to Get Started
• How Did You Miss That?
• I'll Never Get All of That Done!
• Fix It with Focus
• How Do I Remember All That?

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781944882389
Publisher:	Boys Town Press
Publication date:	03/20/2019
Series:	Executive FUNction , #6
Edition description:	First Edition, Illustrated
Pages:	31
Product dimensions:	8.80(w) x 8.80(h) x 0.10(d)
Age Range:	5 - 11 Years

About the Author

Bryan Smith has worked in the education field for more than 15 years, first as an elementary school teacher then as a school counselor. He excels at teaching students life skills that will take them far and help them succeed. He is also a popular children’s author whose other titles include What Were You Thinking? and My Day Is Ruined! His Executive FUNction children’s book series won the Counselor’s Choice Award, which is awarded by Licensed Mental Health Therapists for “Recognition of Quality in the Field.”

Illustrator Lisa M. Griffin holds her BFA in Illustration and is an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Lisa resides in New Hampshire with her husband and three children.

Editorial Reviews

In my experience with kids, the most appealing stories are written from the perspective of relatable characters who are dealing with relevant topics. This is a great book to teach problem solving, whether you’re at school or at home.” – Holly Haynes, Elementary Assistant Principal

"I just ordered this material. I have looked it over and am excited to use it in the classroom, small groups, and individuals!" - Acacia Peak

"I can’t say enough amazing things about every single one of these books by #bryansmith {What’s the Problem?} is the perfect story to help teach problem solving skills to our kiddos. It’s perfect for helping our students and children be Future Thinkers, to think about how other people might feel because of our behavior and our reactions, and reinforcing the Size of the Problem. I just love how relatable all of the characters and situations are, and our conversations and connections are always amazing!" - Kim Gameroz, Behavioral Support Specialist

From the Publisher