Top Dog
Lisa Marie Negele
language
(Lisa Marie Negele, April 5, 2011)
In this enchanting story, a group of puppies, Sandy, Boulder and Mica, are having a sleep-over. After much excitement, the young canines are finally trying to get some rest, but Boulder's tossing and turning keeps disrupting the girls.Finally, he admits to his two friends that he is terribly anxious about an upcoming test he must take at obedience school. Boulder fears he will fail.Once his companions learn the cause of his distress, they readily offer reassurance. Mica encourages Boulder to recite positive affirmations to himself and remind himself that he is going to do well on his exam.Sandy supports Mica's approach and suggests that Boulder also try to visualize himself doing well on the test. She advises him to place himself in the situation in his mind, and then clearly map the desired outcome.The two girls help Boulder feel more confident about his pending exam. He knows he has practiced all the necessary moves and studied the commands, so by following their advice he can alleviate his anxiety.Since many children are nervous or fearful before school examinations, dance performances, music recitals, sporting events and the like, it is crucial that parents find a means of reassuring them. Once their kids have studied or practiced sufficiently, parents should encourage them to feel confident about the upcoming event, activity or examination. By visualizing the desired outcome and thinking positively about his examination, Boulder will share this important message with your children. They, too, can rely upon visualization and positive affirmations when faced with activities, tests or performances about which they are nervous, anxious or fearful.Kids ages 2 to 10 will enjoy this book. Read it at bedtime, naptime or any time!