Too often kids (and many adults too) react to a problem situation without taking the time to think in a clear and rational way. In the heat of a problem, conflict, or disappointment, it is hard to get kids to think things through clearly. They tend to blame others, blame themselves, be unnecessarily pessimistic, or insist on self-centered solutions. The Positive Thoughts game gives kids a way to learn both the pitfalls and the skills for dealing successfully with these problems, kids can apply the skills to their own issues. In the game, strategies are applied to everyday problems, not serious problems. The game uses the word "positive" instead of "rational," and "negative" instead of "irrational. The game makes the pitfalls easy to understand by representing them with animals: Blaming Bear, Downer Dragon, and My Way Moose. This game is based on the principles of cognitive therapy, and shows that many problems can often be traced to irrational thinking processes. Problems can be alleviated or solved by beginning to use rational thinking processes. Card decks include: What's the Problem cards, Plus or Minus cards, You Decide cards, and Multiple Choice cards. There are two sets of rules. Version A is designed for second and third graders. Version B, which is more challenging, is designed for fourth and fifth graders. First graders can use Version A if the teacher is present to help facilitate.
