Empowering Young Minds Through Reading
to Face Challenges with Courage
The Book:
Dog, What Can I Do?
"Dog, What Can I Do?" is a story that takes readers on a journey of friendship, kindness, learning, and strength. Written by a mental health therapist, this book applies clinical interventions through the perspective of animal characters.
The story follows Dog and his friends as they share unique ways to handle big feelings, fostering self-regulation and social courage. Engaging animal characters bring these core concepts to life, offering strategies that benefit both children and adults in building resilience and working through life challenges.
We hope "Dog, What Can I Do?" serves as a valuable companion in the journey of personal growth and wellness, using storytelling to empower young minds to face challenges with confidence.
​Our Mission:
Read for Courage
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At Read for Courage, we're dedicated to fostering personal and community wellness by increasing access to mental health resources. Our mission is to bridge the gap of access to mental health resources through the power of books and storytelling.
Written from the perspective of a mental health therapist, our first book translates evidence-based techniques into engaging narratives that help both children and adults navigate difficult emotions with confidence. Our flagship book, "Dog, What Can I Do?", is specifically designed to build self-regulation skills, resilience, and social courage. While created for children, the skills presented are equally applicable to adults, making it a versatile tool for readers of all ages.
Mental Health Resources
Access to mental health knowledge and resources is vital for building the confidence needed to care for ourselves and others. Understanding these topics empowers us to support those around us while nurturing our own well-being.
By making these resources accessible, we aim to bridge the gap for those who may not have access to traditional therapy, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We hope you explore and share these resources and skills to create a robust, accessible knowledge base that fosters courage and resilience.
Organizations
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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
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Child Mind Institute: A resource for parents and educators regarding child and adolescent mental health
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Family Resource Center: Find information to support children struggling with mental health, behavior, or learning challenges
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NAMI HelpLine: A free, nationwide resource providing information, resource referrals, and support related to mental health: 811-950-6264 or email
Books for Young People
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Click for a list of children's books on topics including ADHD, anxiety, autism, body image, disordered eating, bullying, depression, dyslexia, exploring feelings, grief and loss, self-esteem, mindfulness, and more
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The Big Life Journal: Provides guided self-reflection through journaling, kits, and cards to support kids and teens cultivate a growth mindset. Options for kids 5 and up
Tools for Parents and Caregivers
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Good Inside - Dr. Becky Kennedy
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Peaceful Parent Happy Kids - Dr. Laura Markham
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Whole Brain Child - Daniel Siegel, M.D., and Tina Payne Bryson, PhD.
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Book/Website ​
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The Chemistry of Calm and The Chemistry of Joy - Henry Emmons, MD
Support Lines
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
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The Trevor Project (LGBTQ Youth): Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678
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Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860
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National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
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HelpGuide.org provides directory searches for Mental Health Helplines
New Skill of the Week
Stay tuned for weekly updates on skill building and application in a direct, easy to follow format
Please note: The above resources are intended to support knowledge building and are not intended to replace traditional mental health care, which remains highly valuable and appropriate for some individuals. These resources are not intended for use in an emergency or for diagnostic purposes. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact 911 or the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
About The Author
Dog, What Can I Do?
Sarah Robinson is a mental health therapist, yoga instructor, and, most importantly, a mom. Her work is dedicated to promoting well-being, and through writing she aims to help children navigate their inner worlds with greater confidence, and strengthen their resiliency in managing life's challenges. Children, with their boundless curiosity and profound ability to learn and grow, are truly some of our greatest teachers. Sarah's hope is that the adults holding this book will also learn from and engage in these teachings with the curiosity of a child. Sarah Rosencrans Robinson
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