Talk and Work It Out

by Cheri J. Meiners

What’s the best way to solve problems between people? By talking them over and working them out. It’s never too soon for children to learn the process of peaceful conflict resolution. This book distills it into clear, simple language and supporting illustrations. Children learn to calm themselves, state the problem, listen, think of solutions, try one, evaluate results, and even agree to disagree when a solution isn’t possible. Includes skill-building games and role plays for adults to use with children.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Nonfiction

40 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Cheri has her master's degree in elementary education and gifted education. A former first-grade teacher, she has taught education classes at Utah State University and has supervised student teachers. She is the author of the award-winning children's series, 'Learning to Get Along', and the new series, 'Being the Best Me.' Cheri and her husband, David, have six children and three grandchildren.

Reviews

[Tanya]

Definitely meant for use in conjunction with acting out scenarios. It is entirely pedantic without any examples using the children talking. That said, my 3yo seems to like it.

[Alexa Reed]

I think this is a great book. It’s probably meant for first and second graders, but it can teach anybody the basics of conflict resolution. The exercises in the back are especially important.

The illustrations are colorful, and sometimes show how conflict was resolved when the narration doesn’t.

I am going to try to read more from the “learning to get along” series and from the author’s “Being the Best Me!” series.

[Sara Bushaw]

This book has a universal theme that can be used for anyone, such as adults. Many people do not know how to deal with their feelings and when they do get into an argument with someone, they handle it incorrectly. This book focus on positives ways/tips on how to handle a situation correctly, and offers moral advice.

[BODOUR SAMI]

Visualized feelings

I like how this story visualizes emotions, ideas and how to deal with it in life scenarios, Also I liked the discussion at the end with more ideas to engrave new ethics and skills

[Isabel Hernandez]

This book is very great for young children. It teaches young children about conflict resolution. It helps children work together to think of solutions to solve the problem. Problem solving is very important.

[Taylor Kundel-Gower]

3.5

[Miriam]

This is a great book to teach kids how to share, make compromises, and be okay with doing it someone else's way at times. It has beautiful artwork with diverse children

[Bella Noorbakhsh]

This book is good because it shows different conflicts at school and what they can do to resolve the issues.

[Stephanie Salas]

The book can help children use problem solving skills

[Marc Lucke]

This is an excellent introduction to conflict resolution. It focusses on basic communication skills, empathy and strengthening interpersonal bonds. The drawings are large and bright, with a diverse collection of children presented in a variety of settings, and there is a mix of both at-home and at-school situations which require careful negotiation. This is a worthwhile addition to any parent's bookshelf.

[Kiera]

Talk and Work It Out is a good way to teach children how to use their words to talk things out. It also covers what to do when children are in conflict with one another, how to listen to others, and how to express themselves in a positive way.

[Principle Based Learning]

(recommended by: Ashley B)
Click here for the full article on: More Than Just Fairytales

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa)]

I love teaching children through the power of the written word. This book shows some practical ideas on working out your problems with friends.

[Cheyenne]

Great book about working out problems.

[Elexa]

Good for learning Spanish