Author/illustrator Nicky Johnston has created another lovely picture book to help children manage their anxiety and confront their fears. With Amelia’s encouragement, Connor discovers that sometimes it is fun to try new things and readers learn that they can ‘change your thoughts, to change your feelings’ as a strategy for dealing with worry and anxiety.
My own daughter suffered with anxiety issues when she was younger and I understand how difficult it can be to open up a meaningful discussion with a young child about the impacts of anxiety. Picture books such as Actually, I Can are a wonderful way to spark conversations in a non-confrontational way and to help children feel comfortable sharing their feelings with an adult who can help and support them.
Actually, I Can was launched by World Vision Chief Executive Tim Costello earlier this month and joins Nicky Johnston’s other books, Go Away, Mr Worrythoughts and Happythoughts are Everywhere, as a resource for helping children realise that they can work through their worries and think about life in a more positive way.
It is a sad fact that too many children suffer from anxiety issues. Books such as Actually, I Can are a wonderful resource for parents, teachers and counsellors to help children feel comfortable talking about the things that worry them and helping them to find positive ways to deal with negative emotions.
There are a variety of resources for teachers and parents to support the message found in Actually, I Can and Nicky's other books available at Nicky Johnston's website.
Title: Actually, I Can
Author/Illustrator: Nicky Johnston
Publisher: Rough Draft Publishing, $16.95 RRP
Publication Date: 3 August 2013
Format: Soft Cover
ISBN: 9780987092670
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture Book