Blog Archives
The ABCs of Motivation
Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t?: Unlocking Teen Motivation in School and Life combines real-life stories with research-backed strategies, providing a comprehensive resource that can rekindle a teen’s enthusiasm for learning. What was the inspiration for writing a book on this topic?
A student asked one of my (Becca’s) colleagues, who was teaching a class on study skills, “Can you help me give a sh*t about high school? I want to, but I just don’t know how.” That colleague came to me and another colleague for advice. In the process of offering support, I realized that most of the books out there only offer token anecdotes about students’ experiences, without really collaborating with them on building solutions. So I began interviewing young people about their most and least engaging experiences in high school, and what made the difference between them. In the process, my first interviewee, Grace, became my co-author. We interviewed high school and college students from across the country, and integrated their anonymized stories into insights for parents and educators in this book.
How much research did you undertake for this book and how much time did it take to put it all together?
It took us about two and a half years to conduct the research, write, and revise this book. We formally interviewed 20 young people from all over the country and identified the themes in their experiences. We also reviewed secondary research from education and psychology to confirm if the themes students were surfacing had shown up for other researchers, and interviewed professionals (educators, researchers, and psychiatrists) and parents to generate actionable insights for the end of each chapter.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The most important idea is that student motivation, like any human motivation, doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s not just a personality trait that some people have and other people don’t. It’s heavily influenced by environmental factors, and students, educators, and parents can do things to make those factors more supportive of motivation. If you make environments that support what we refer to as the ABCs of motivation (ability, belonging, and choices), motivation increases.
The other key idea is that this can’t happen for people, it needs to happen with them: students, educators, and parents need to collaborate to build solutions together. Parents and educators also struggle with their motivation – they’re overburdened and stressed out, frequently in situations that limit their own ABCs. Respectful, creative, and thoughtful collaboration is the only sustainable way to build solutions that will work for everyone.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t??
If you’re a student, parent, or educator feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, or apathetic about school – you’re not alone! These are flip sides of the same coin, and a natural response to a system that, on the whole, isn’t designed to help anyone in it maintain sustainable motivation for learning, curiosity, and growth. At the same time, waiting on systemic change can take too long for the people stuck in difficult situations right now. This book will help give ideas on what to do right now to improve motivation, as well as start conversations that can improve the broader system over the long term.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Sparked by this student’s request, educator and parent Dr. Rebecca Block and undergraduate student Grace Edwards began talking with teens across the country. Students spoke about when and how school fell short and what made the difference when it didn’t.
Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? shares those stories, alongside research in psychology and education, to explore how to help young people build lasting motivation – not the kind that leads to short, panic-driven bursts of productivity, but the kind that energizes over the long haul.
Don’t wait for systemic changes. Discover engaging stories and practical strategies to empower parents and educators to:
– Build relationships that support sustainable motivation
– Encourage student voice and agency
– Make school feel more relevant
– Manage screens’ impact on motivation
A must-read for anyone invested in rekindling students’ love of learning. Get this book to start making a difference in your teens’ lives today.
Find The Ladder
Nadeem Shafkat Lutfullah’s Find the Ladder offers a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the modern career landscape, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The book begins with a stark reminder of the pandemic’s devastating impact on both lives and livelihoods, setting the stage for a broader discussion on resilience, adaptability, and the power of positive thinking.
One of the most intriguing takeaways from the book is Lutfullah’s concept of the “Eureka instant,” described as ‘the critical moments of intentional thought that shape our actions and outcomes.’ He builds the book around this idea, taking readers on a journey to understand how a positive mindset is foundational to success, likening it to the opening moves in a chess game that determine the course of play.
Lutfullah excels in demonstrating his points through real-world examples, drawing from his own experiences and those of others. For instance, he tells the story of a small family-owned restaurant that successfully adopted a digital model, illustrating the power of adaptability in personal and business contexts, especially during a crisis. He addresses the challenges of such transitions honestly, including the mental health implications of prolonged isolation and the digital divide. His insistence on lifelong learning is a key message that helps readers manage their expectations, showcasing his credibility as a writer. Lutfullah’s insights can be applied directly to change the trajectory of one’s career. His writing is personal and passionate, and his storytelling conveys a deep commitment to the subject. This approach offers readers a comforting and encouraging perspective, making the book especially valuable for those feeling stuck in their careers.
Find the Ladder, by Nadeem Shafkat Lutfullah, is like a warm mug of cocoa on a snowy day—exactly what you need to keep going. It is engaging, motivational, and encourages readers to hope for better while also reminding them to stay realistic.
Pages: 107 | ASIN : B0D5FK14K5
Empathy and Support
A Different Lens follows a young skunk who struggles with his morning routine and schoolwork leading to feelings of frustration and isolation. What was the inspiration for your story?
As an educator and a mother, I have the privilege of connecting with many children. A few years ago, an extraordinary boy with ADHD was going through a particularly challenging period. One day he told me, “Don’t you understand? It doesn’t feel good at all to have a hard time!” It was at this moment my understanding of what Dr. Ross Greene has said, “Kids do well when they can,” moved from my head to my heart. I witnessed how empathy and support changed this child’s life. I also became keenly aware that so many people with invisible disabilities are negatively impacted because their challenges are misunderstood. I wrote this book so that readers of all ages could have the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of someone with an invisible disability. Given this experience, I hope they will see this population through “a different lens,” and be inspired to show patience, empathy, and support.
The art in this book brings the emotions of Simon to life so even younger children can understand what he is experiencing. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Zoe Bendoff?
Partnering with Zoe was a fantastic experience! It was a close collaboration. We live in the same town, so we met throughout the process. I shared hopes for each page, requesting simple images that focused on the emotions of the characters. Zoe blended in her ideas and added her signature style creating beautiful illustrations that truly capture the feelings of each character. She also embedded many personally meaningful “hidden nuggets.” For example, the handwriting in Simon’s journal and the word “Different” in the title are my son’s handwriting. She is extremely talented and was truly a joy to partner with.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As Dr. Stuart Shanker said, “When you see a child differently, you’ll see a different child.” What may appear to be off-task, attention-seeking, or defiant behavior is often the symptom of an invisible disability and outside the child’s control. Everyone wants to do well. When we assume positive intent and aim to support all children in a way that is individualized to their needs, they can be the best version of themselves. When this happens, those children and everyone around them benefit.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Book number two is in process and will be published in the spring of 2025. It is about a day in the life of one of Simon’s classmates- Robyn. Check back in the spring to find out more!
Author Links: GoodReads | Adori Publishing | Amazon
“A Different Lens” is:
A must-have for every elementary school’s Diverse Book Club list
A book for educators and administrators of 1st-5th grade classrooms supporting social-emotional learning
A resource for parents to teach children about empathy, neurodiversity, and invisible disabilities, such as ADHD.
A tool for enhancing adults’ understanding of the diverse abilities of children within their families, schools, and community
Simon struggles to complete simple tasks at home and school, leading everyone in his world to feel upset and annoyed. Inevitably, Simon’s frustration reaches a boiling point and he makes a huge mistake in front of everyone! How will Simon ever recover? Why can’t he just do better? In the end, readers will realize that Simon, like everyone, is doing the best he can, and with a little support, the world can become a better place for all.
The Case for Values Education
The Case for Values Education delves into the crucial role of education in shaping the future of the United States, presenting it as a pivotal force at a time riddled with division and uncertainty. Author, Rolland B, offers a compelling narrative, arguing that the approach to education could either significantly bolster the nation or, conversely, lead to its downfall. He explores various facets of the educational landscape, from historical developments to the role of education as a social driver, crafting a multi-dimensional discussion that underscores his expertise and thorough research.
Rolland B emphasizes the evolving purpose of education, reflecting the shifting demands of society. He particularly highlights the critical role schools play in nurturing the interpersonal skills of future citizens. A notable strength of the book is its reliance on data, including mission statements from numerous school districts, which supports a well-founded discussion on educational disparities, especially in funding across the K-12 system. The author does not shy away from contentious topics. He argues that the decline in civic and history education has diminished young people’s understanding of democratic principles, a point that ignites fervent debate among educators and policymakers alike. Rolland B’s writing is infused with a mix of passion and lament for the current generation, which he believes is fundamentally disadvantaged by existing educational inequities.
With persuasive language and evident concern, Rolland B not only critiques the status quo but also encourages the reader to advocate for substantial reforms in public education. His approach is both an urgent warning and a rallying cry for broader engagement with educational policy, making The Case for Values Education an essential read for anyone invested in the future of the nation’s education system. It serves as a critical call to action, urging all, regardless of parental status, to influence policymakers and instigate meaningful change.
Pages: 184 | ASIN : B0CVCL2L6W
Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? Unlocking Teen Motivation in School and Life
Are you concerned about your teen’s lack of motivation in school? Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? by Dr. Rebecca Block and Grace Edwards provides a refreshing and practical approach to addressing student apathy. Inspired by a student’s heartfelt plea for help, this insightful book explores the root causes of motivation struggles among teens, primarily focusing on the issue of disconnect.
Rather than placing blame, Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? offers a constructive guide for parents and educators to bridge the gap between teens and their education. Block and Edwards present a wealth of practical strategies to foster meaningful connections and support systems that resonate with today’s youth. This book transcends the often slow pace of systemic change, equipping readers with the tools to build relationships that make teens feel understood and valued. The authors delve into methods that encourage students to take ownership of their learning, helping them see the relevance of schoolwork to their personal goals. Additionally, the book addresses the significant challenge of managing screen time and its impact on student motivation, offering actionable advice on navigating this modern obstacle.
Written in a captivating and accessible style, Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? is essential reading for anyone committed to improving a teen’s educational experience. It combines real-life stories with research-backed strategies, providing a comprehensive resource that can rekindle a teen’s enthusiasm for learning—and perhaps even reignite your own passion for education.
Pages: 310 | ASIN : B0D2N2319G
Drawing Data with Kids
Drawing Data with Kids is an engaging and informative book that cleverly introduces children to the world of data visualization. Through the charming narrative of Pariza and her data-nerd father, Abbu, readers are taken on a journey where everyday moments are transformed into opportunities to learn about data, graphs, and visual storytelling. The book’s unique blend of storytelling, practical examples, and interactive exercises makes it a fantastic resource for parents, educators, and anyone interested in making data literacy accessible and fun for kids.
One of the most delightful aspects of the book is its storytelling approach. Khan weaves educational content seamlessly into the adventures of Pariza and her family. For example, in the chapter titled “The Snore Graph,” Pariza’s curiosity about her father’s snoring leads to the creation of a line graph. This not only makes the concept of line graphs relatable but also demonstrates how data can be found in everyday life. The stories are both entertaining and educational, capturing the attention of young readers and making complex ideas simple to understand.
The writing is both friendly and engaging, striking the right balance between education and entertainment. Khan’s explanations are clear and concise, making it easy for children to grasp new concepts. The “Time Out” sections provide additional insights and details, helping to reinforce the lessons learned in the stories. For instance, the “Monday Blues” chapter introduces bar graphs using the number of letters in the days of the week, turning a mundane topic into an exciting data exploration.
Another thing I liked about this book is its interactive nature. Each chapter concludes with a “Your Turn to Play” section, encouraging children to apply what they’ve learned through hands-on activities. These exercises are thoughtfully designed to be both fun and educational, ensuring that the lessons stick. For example, children are prompted to create a pie chart using their own data after learning about pie charts in the “Snakes & Ladders” chapter.
Drawing Data with Kids is a wonderful resource for parents and educators looking to introduce children to the world of data visualization in a fun and engaging way. The book’s blend of storytelling, practical examples, and interactive exercises makes it an excellent tool for fostering a love of learning and data literacy.
Pages: 126 | ASIN : B0C66JJ48M
