As a former fifth grade science teacher, I know the importance of being able to assist students with strategies to stay organized and overcome challenges. However, these planning skills are often not taught to younger students. This can lead to students feeling overwhelmed when they get stuck on a task and cannot move forward. In my experience, this can result in students abandoning the task or problem at hand. Therefore, my target audience is fifth grade students, but the book can be read by anyone of an older age bracket as well.
Navigating my Mind walks the reader through the process of the main character, Cassie, identifying her ideal conditions for success. Cassie is attempting to complete her homework but cannot seem to get started! Her friends Sage and Brian help her to navigate her mind so she can come to her own solution based on what has worked for her in the past. Sage guides Cassie to Brian and he takes it from there! Brian interacts with Cassie by asking lots of questions to surface a past memory of when Cassie was able to successfully complete her homework and asks her what she notices about the scene. From this, Cassie is able to come to her own conclusion to solve her problem.
At the very end of the book, the reader is able to use the same problem-solving steps as Cassie to tackle any problem they may face. The framework walks through describing the problem, noting feelings around the problem, and brainstorming several solutions. The framework also allows space for iteration because some problems may be more complicated than they first appear!
The book has been generously contributed to by some of my friends in the form of artwork! The main background of inside Cassie’s mind (see image to the right) was designed in a reflective art-making experience with a close friend of mine who is getting their art therapy license. This personal touch is extremely meaningful to me and showcases the passion and love that went into making this book materialize!
Click the link here to follow Cassie and her friends through the depths of the mind to solve the ultimate problem for any student, getting homework done.
