Transform this book into a teaching tool! Download the 10 Lesson Plans and Activities to explore Social Thinking concepts such as perspective taking, abstract language, empathy, and human relatedness. The CD that used to accompany the book contained these materials, now you can access them digitally.

This poetic and engaging book introduces children (K-5th) to the amazing, creative power within us all: thought. It is not a book about changing thoughts or changing behaviors, but rather a story to help children (and adults!) see how their own thinking creates their lives, moment to moment, day to day.

Wonderfully illustrated, this children's book not only introduces young readers to the concept of thought but also the amazing power of their own thoughts. Authors Amy Kahofer and noted prevention specialist Jack Pransky tell a simple yet profound message: that our thinking creates our feelings and behavior, and when our minds are calm we have access to natural wisdom and healthy feelings.

The Thoughts of Michelle Garcia Winner

What Is a Thought? is a charming children’s book with a two-fold purpose. First, it is an engaging story that introduces the concept of thought and the amazing power our thoughts have on our lives. As a read-aloud book it is perfect for parents to read with their children at home, and is a valuable and important book for all early elementary school teachers to share in their general education classes.

Second, the 10 Lesson Plans and Activities transform a simple children's story into a teaching tool that explores perspective taking, abstract/inferential language, and introduces abstract visual images to its readers. Whether we are parents, teachers, or clinicians, we strive to help our children grow and develop social competencies. Before we can fully support different types of learners and social communicators, it is important to understand where communication originates: from our own creative power of thought!

About the Authors

Amy Kahofer received her Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Vermont. She has been working with young children for more than 20 years as a special educator, preschool and kindergarten teacher, and currently is a first-grade teacher in a public school in Vermont.

Jack Pransky has worked in the field of prevention since 1968 in a variety of capacities and now provides consultation, coaching, training, and counseling nationally and internationally. He has published many books for adults, including Parenting from the Heart, Modello: A Story of Hope for the Inner City and Beyond, Prevention from the Inside-Out, Somebody Should Have Told Us!, and also a curriculum for middle-school students called Healthy Thinking/Feeling/Doing from the Inside Out.

Amy and Jack live along a river in Moretown, Vermont.

About the Illustrator

Tina DuSablon began drawing long ago, while sitting at the kitchen table listening to her grandmother describe her self-taught illustration techniques. She has continued to draw and paint, alongside getting married, raising three boys, and working directly with children with special needs in Vermont public schools. She also lives in Moretown, VT.