Beginners are Brave

Tommy is good at almost everything: He's awesome at riding his bike without training wheels, teaching his dog new tricks, and spelling seven-letter words like "kumquat." But when it comes to trying new things, he would rather not. With encouragement from his grandfather, Tommy tries something he has always wanted to do--play the tuba--and learns that some things take practice and the value of sticking with it through challenges.

A special section for teachers, parents, and caregivers provides tips on how to talk to young children about trying new things and help build their emotional resilience. Lexile Rating: AD620L: Adult Directed. Grades 2-3.

One of the best ways to nurture happiness in young children is to prepare them for the adversity they will encounter in life. Purposefully developing a child's resiliency will give them essential life skills to cope with challenges, adopt a positive perspective, and develop self-confidence--all essential ingredients for long term happiness.