Current research is establishing the importance of teaching such social and emotional skills as kindness, tolerance, respect, empathy, responsibility, self-control, and cooperation. We now know that repeated experiences impact the brain and shape the person. The more children are exposed to these concepts and practice these skills, the stronger the underlying mental circuits become. It is through this development that kids become caring and capable.The group activities, short stories, songs, reproducible activity sheets, Sharing Circles, and thought-provoking discussion questions provided in this award-winning book address qualities inherent in caring people. The skills that develop are those that make children capable. They include: Keeping agreements Developing responsible habits Effectively solving problems Demonstrating respect for self and others Being loyal, trustworthy, and honest Following rules Demonstrating kindness, consideration, and empathy Peacefully resolving conflicts Developing self-management skills, and Learning to be a team member