Not part of a series
Benny Beats His Shyness: Kids and Parents Overcoming Social Anxiety
What’s inside...
Overcoming social anxiety is what this book is all about.
It offers a unique roadmap.
For parents: Simple coping strategies.
For kids: It is an intriguing and engaging story.
How does it work?
This book describes Benny the lion cub’s journey towards overcoming his social anxiety,
while thoroughly going over the strategies his parents used to help him.
Benny’s journey was not easy, and along the way, he had to overcome one challenge after another. The result was a dramatic change in his ability to cope with shyness.
Today Benny can communicate with cubs and adults easily; he can speak in class and has a rich social life.
You child will:
Learn that social anxiety can be dealt with.
Get engaged in overcoming their severe shyness.
Enjoy and identify with Benny’s journey.
You, the parent, will:
Learn what your child is going through.
Receive practical and effective tools for helping them.
This book introduces strategies that consist of simple, proven, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy practices based on Dr. Jonathan Kushnir’s years of experience in treating hundreds of children and adults.
Age
4-8
Length
50 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Discussion points
How did Benny feel when he tried new things in the story?
Can you think of a time you felt like Benny? How did you handle it?
What helped Benny feel less shy? Do you think those things could help you too?
Why do you think it's important for Benny to try and overcome his shyness?
How did Benny's parents support him? What would you want us to do to help you in a similar situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about shyness by relating to Benny's experiences.
Acknowledge your child’s feelings and share your own stories of feeling shy or anxious.
Discuss the strategies Benny used and ask your child if they think these could work for them, or brainstorm other ideas together.
Reinforce the idea that feeling shy or anxious is normal, and overcoming it is a gradual and achievable process.
Praise your child for openly discussing their feelings and encourage them to think of times they’ve been brave or tried something new, just like Benny.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Overcoming Shyness
Explanation: Benny, the main character, encounters various social scenarios that gradually help him handle his shyness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply Benny’s experiences to their own life by facing social situations step-by-step, understanding that feeling shy is normal and can be managed.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: The story shows Benny learning that other kids also feel shy at times, helping him feel less alone and more understanding of his peers.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to recognize similar emotions in their classmates or friends, fostering a supportive and empathetic environment.
Example Lesson: Courage to try new things
Explanation: Benny’s journey includes trying new activities that he initially fears, showing the value of bravery in personal growth.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to step out of their comfort zones and try new activities, which can lead to new interests and build confidence.
Example Lesson: Communication Skills
Explanation: As Benny interacts more with others, he improves his ability to express himself and communicate his feelings.
Real-World Application: Enhances a child’s ability to articulate thoughts and emotions effectively, crucial for social and academic success.
Example Lesson: Positive Parental Support
Explanation: The book highlights how Benny’s parents provide encouragement and understanding, crucial in helping him navigate his feelings of shyness.
Real-World Application: Reinforces the role of parents in supporting their children through challenges, aligned with fostering an open and communicative family environment.