Lisa M. Schab Cool, Calm, and Confident

Last updated: October 13, 2023

Lisa M. Schab Cool, Calm, and Confident

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We looked at the top Assertiveness Workbooks and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Assertiveness Workbook you should buy.

Overall Take

Teach kids how to be assertive and speak up for their needs at a young age. The evidence-based book teaches confidence-builiding skills through simple exercises and helps children improve their self-image with methods that can be used throughout their lives.

In our analysis of 16 expert reviews, the Lisa M. Schab Cool, Calm, and Confident placed 5th when we looked at the top 6 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

Self-assured, assertive kids are not only less likely to be picked on by their peers, they’re also less likely to bully others. But it’s not always easy for children to find a healthy middle ground between passivity and aggression. If your child is a frequent target for bullies, or has begun to tease and take advantage of other kids, the easy and effective activities in Cool, Calm, and Confident can help. These simple exercises help children stand up for themselves without coming across as aggressive, learn to be both kind and assertive, and develop self-confidence and a positive self-image. Using this workbook is an easy and effective way to instill self-esteem in both passive and aggressive children-a strength that will prove invaluable in childhood, in their teenage years, and throughout their lives. Help children to: Learn the difference between passive, aggressive, and assertive behavior; behave in ways that discourage teasing; understand their rights and stand up for themselves; stay calm and learn skills for managing anger; and make real and lasting friendships.

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

I often use the activities in this book in conjuction with other curriculums. The activites are flexable and can be adjusted to work with younger or older kids.
This book is great for older children who are struggling with bullying, as this is often where children first have to show assertiveness. It also would be a great resource for parents who have younger children who are being bullied, as they can then guide their children through the strategies the book offers.

What experts didn't like

Overview

Assertiveness is the act of behaving confidently and boldly without aggression. Assertive people are able to stand up for themselves and their needs, set boundaries and communicate exactly what they want.

There are many benefits to being assertive. Acting this way fosters healthy communication between yourself and those you interact with, such as your family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. Assertiveness also ensures that others don’t take unfair advantage of you or bully you into doing things you don’t want to do. Being able to be assertive can reduce personal stress because you work to create an environment in which you feel satisfied — not one where you feel overwhelmed, trampled on or dominated.

Assertiveness is a skill you can use in many different situations. For example, if a co-worker asks you to take on their work for a project when you already have too much on your plate, you can set boundaries calmly and explain why you can’t do their job for them. Similarly, if a neighbor wants you to shovel their driveway every time you shovel your own, you can maneuver the situation in a confident yet friendly manner.

If you have trouble being assertive at home, at work or with your friends and family, you’re not alone. There are many people who have difficulty with this skill — but luckily, it is something you can teach yourself to do.

An assertiveness workbook is ideal for those who find themselves in situations where they wish they were empowered to say what they want without unreasonably damaging relationships. As a self-help tool, an assertiveness workbook can help you learn this important skill, practice in a theoretical setting and then apply what you have learned to the real world.

Buying Advice

  • When looking for self-help tools, it’s important to not fall for hyperbole. Many books and workbooks promise results within a short period of time or make guarantees that are unrealistic. For example, they may promise changed behavior with just a quick reading, when most self-help goals take time to realize. Instead of going with tools that offer fast fixes, choose ones that promise change that lasts. After all, you don’t want to be assertive for just one day — you want to learn the skill so you can use it throughout your life.
  • Some people prefer worksheets with lots of exercises while others learn better from reading examples and stories. Consider what is more helpful for you and seek out an assertiveness workbook that provides that kind of tool. You know how you learn best, so choose resources that support your learning style.
  • Reviews are a great way to learn whether an assertiveness workbook will work for your needs. Check out online reviews from multiple sources to find out what people think about the book, whether it made a difference in their lives and what stood out to them about the book’s methodology.
  • As you’re shopping for any self-help book, consider the qualifications of the authors, along with their specialties and experience in this particular field. It’s important to use tools and resources created by professionals who understand the nuances and challenges you may face as you work to improve your life.