In Skill-Building Buddies, animated friends Mikey and Mandy, along with Marvel the puppy, help kids with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) to learn strategies for better communication and interaction with others. Kids with autism often have great difficulty with change and transition, becoming both agitated and resistant. In this program a practical three-step catchphrase is employed to reinforce positive behavior (“look, listen, remain calm”), as live-action situations are intercut with animated segments to illustrate five areas in transitions: “Preparing for Change,” “Changing Activities,” “When Things Don't Go Your Way,” “Handling Surprises,” and “When You Don't Know What to Do.” The program features plenty of repetition to reinforce each strategy as well as communicate key concepts such as “it's okay to feel upset/disappointed.” Combining quality animation, a great multicultural kid cast, and creative editing, this very affordable title is highly recommended. [Note: the companion volume Skill-Building Buddies: Sharing and Taking Turns is also newly available.] Editor's Choice. Aud: K, E, I, P. (E. Gieschen)
Skill-Building Buddies: Handling Transitions and Change
(2007) 30 min. DVD: $19.95. Mazzarella Media. PPR. ISBN: 1-934119-07-5. Volume 23, Issue 3
Skill-Building Buddies: Handling Transitions and Change
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