Of Course It's a Big Deal (Executive Function)

Winner of the 2021 Counselor's Choice Award!

Self-control is the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behavior and to keep one's cool in the face of disappointment. But when children don't get what they want or expect, they often get upset and angry. Reacting calmly and appropriately during these times is an important skill for children to learn and use to be successful at home, school, and with others. 

Braden has a history of having a huge reaction to even minor misunderstandings and annoyances in his life! What was supposed to be a carefree afternoon of go-cart racing and putt-putt golfing quickly turns sour when Braden learns he’s not tall enough to drive a go-cart by himself. He shouts and pouts about the rules—and laments the fact that his parents and teachers just don’t get it and seem to have forgotten what it’s like to be a kid.

When homework interferes with Braden's plans, he overreacts again, and makes things even more difficult on himself. But Mom and Dad are there to teach Braden the four steps  to reacting calmly. Using strategies to stay calm will help Braden use his energy to solve problems and think more rationally about a situation – even a major disappointment.  

Will Braden learn to follow the four steps? Will he be able to keep his cool in the face of disappointment? Or will discouraging moments continue to send him into an emotional meltdown? Find out what lessons are learned in this fast-paced story about the perils of overreacting and losing self-control. This is Bryan Smith's third title in the Executive FUNction book series. Tips for parents and educators are included at the end to help set children up for success by reacting calmly and appropriately when upset or angry.

The Executive FUNction series also include:

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

Bryan Smith comes from a family of educators. He has worked in the education field for more than 19 years. Bryan began his career as an elementary school teacher before realizing he had a talent for helping children deal with difficult issues and became a school counselor. He is the author of the Executive FUNction book series, including What Were You Thinking? and My Day is Ruined! His books teach kids life skills that will take them far and help them succeed. He is married and has two children.