George Baily on Character.

It's a Wonderful Life is one of my all-time favorite movies.

Here is a photo of the T.V. that I had taken on 12/24/10 while watching this movie at my parent's house. It was odd. I had the camera at that moment to take a picture of my brother and his son right when this part of the movie was showing. I just snapped it.

That is one of my favorite parts. George Bailey tells Mr. Potter how it is.



George Bailey: "Just a minute -- just a minute. Now, hold on, Mr. Potter. You're right when you say my father was no businessman. I know that. Why he ever started this cheap, penny-ante Building and Loan, I'll never know. But neither you nor anyone else can say anything against his CHARACTER, because his whole life was - why, in the twenty-five years since he and Uncle Billy started this thing, he never once thought of himself. Isn't that right, Uncle Billy?"

Mr. Bailey had character. He did the right thing. He thought about others. He was fair. He helped people in need. He had a big heart. These were the reasons he started the Building and Loan.

I created Building Character with Sam and Izzy to help teach the same CHARACTER traits.

If you've not done so already -- get a copy of the book. Click the picture of the book here:

Building Character by Danny Pettry. (Autographed) FREE Shipping.

Use This Buy Now Link Below to Get Book Directly From Danny Pettry

with an autographed message.

Get Your Autographed Copy Now (Free shipping!)

Regular Price is $13.92 + S&H Your price here is only $12.95 with FREE Shipping.

Be sure to send a quick email to Danny (Danny at DannyPettry.com) to let him know who to write the book to. Here is an example: “To Abby and Dalton.”

Use this paypal button below to order a copy of Danny Pettry’s book.

Be sure to send a quick email to Danny (Danny at DannyPettry.com) to let him know who to write the book to. Here is an example: “To Abby and Dalton.”

Buy Now

Lessons from animals

Anne-Marie O’Neill suggested “5 things you can learn from your pet” in the January 2011 issue of Real Simple Magazine.
As you already know, I used animals (dogs and cats) to teach children 15 character traits in my 2010 book, “Building Character with Sam, Izzy, and Many Other Dogs.” I think the concept that animals can teach people is wonderful.
In a nutshell, ONeill recommends:

1. Celebrate everything. You know how a dog gets really happy for anything. Example: someone walks in the door. Celebrate. Going to the shop or office? Celebrate! Sounds good to me.
2. Be there. This doesn’t require talking. It is just being present. Feeling down? It’s amazing how some pets seem to be empathetic. They have a certain ability to know how their owner is feeling. (at least some pets.) My parent’s cat is oblivious to others.
3. You don’t have to be super smart. Some animals aren’t the brightest.
4. Be yourself. This one is about doing your own thing without trying to impress others. Think for yourself. Make decisions on your own. Be independent like a cat.
5. If a dog can get along with anybody – a person could too. Dale Carnegie said that the easiest way to get along with others is to behave like a dog.
O’Neill suggests 5 interest tips that I like.

If you’d like to know 15 tips that animals can teach children then check out my book here. It includes 15 tips that help children build character (with the help from animals). The story about a dog who listens shows a picture with a dog with an ear raised up. The story of acceptance shows two very different dogs (bulldog and Chihuahua) who accept each other despite their differences. The story on forgiving shows a picture of a dog chewing shoes.

Did you know...

Did you know…
That Target gives 5% of its income to support education.
Apparently they give about $3 million a week.
They’ve announced a Big Goal. They’re pledging to give $500 by the end of 2015 to help education. In particular to help kids learn how to read.
More information here:

http://www.Target.com/reading

What is your goal for the new 2011 year?
What is your goal to complete before 2015?

Dec. 10th is Wear Star Wars to support Katie Day!

Katie Goldman is a cute little first grader and she loves “Star Wars!”
CNN’s reporter Jamie Gumbrecht said that “the force is strong with Katie!”

I felt upset to hear that children would tease and bully Katie because she loved “Star Wars,” but very pleased to hear about the support for Katie, which I’ll tell you more about below.

But first, I want to say:

Bullying and teasing are two things I can’t stand the least.
I’m a big advocate for teaching children (and adults) to be accepting of others.
As a recreational therapist, I provide violence prevention programs, social skills training, empathy building, and other life skills training for children ages (8 to 12).

Back to the story:

Katie had always taken a “Star Wars” water bottle to school when one day her mother noticed that Katie had asked to take a pink one instead.

Katie was in tears when she told her mother that the kids told her that “Star Wars” is only for boys.

Katie;s story went viral. It even made CNN news when her mother Carrie Goldman posted a blog entry with picture of Katie asking for help.

Blogger Jen Yates had empathy for little Katie.

She couldn’t get the thought of her out of her mind.

Yates said she felt isolated in high school for being a “Star Trek” fan. Jennifer Yates blog entry has went viral across the internet and has reached CNN. I think Yates said it best in her blogpost:

“Don't let the scruffy nerf herders get you down. You rock that water bottle with pride, and know that there are thousands of other fans out there (myself included) who would be proud to share a lunch table with you.”

People are encouraged to wear Star Wars on Dec. 10th in support of Katie and anti-bullying. Please donate a Star Wars toy to a local charity for children on this day too.

Here is an amazon link for a children's book that you order and donate to your child's school library:

Are you a teacher, therapist, or parent?

Do you want to teach your child how to be a better person? Of course you do. I doubt a person would want their child to be the bully. My new children's book, Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs is a great way to teach your child about accepting others, compromising, having good sportsmanship, being respectful, generous, helpful, empathetic, and more.

You'd like for your child or a child you know to develop and improve these skills, wouldn't you? You like pictures of cute animals don't you? All right then. Just read the book to your child.

Pet Therapy for Veterans.

Mark Thompson had written an article for Time that was featured today (Dec. 5, 2010) called,
Bringing Dogs to Heal: Care for Veterans with PTSD.

As a Recreational Therapist, I am familiar with animal-assistance dogs and dogs that are used for therapeutic healing.

In a nutshell, Thompson’s article was about Brad Fasnacht (26 y.o./ staff sergeant) who had been seriously injured when removing mines from roads in Afghan. Brad had broken his spine and both ankles and was in a stupor for two weeks. He had traumatic brain injury and now suffered with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Brad had awoken from his stupor at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. Walter Reed uses dogs in their therapies. Thompson reported that Dr. Sandra Barker (Virginia Commonwealth University) had pushed for the program at Walter Reed. I [Danny Pettry] also I imagine there was a strong push from their recreational therapists, too.

Brad received a therapy dog, Sapper, (an Australian cattle dog mix) to help him with his PTSD.

Barker has published several studies. A 1998 study found that patient’s anxiety dropped twice as much when spending time with dogs as it did compared to standard therapeutic recreation (music and art) that was provided.

Barker had also published in 2003 a study that showed significant reduction in fear among patients scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy (after spending 15-minutes with a dog).


You can read the full article here:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2030897-2,00.html#ixzz17IaZTGtw

Dogs are humankind’s best friend for sure.


Dogs and (some cats) were used in my children’s book to teach social skills to children. The book features pictures of cute animals to illustrate concepts such as: being fair, considerate, empathetic, and generous.

Get the book here:



NEED CEUS?

Recreational Therapists and other allied professionals can register for a self-study course titled “Therapeutic Outcomes for Using Dogs as a Pet Therapy Approach.” It is worth 5 clock hours of continuing education at my web-site.

Go here to register for it and other courses:

http://www.dannypettry.com/Courses.htm

Accepted by Tamarack -- The Best of West Virginia

I received a wonderful letter from Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia today.
It read:

Dear Danny:

Congratulations! I am pleased to inform you that the following book has been accepted into the Tamarack System:

Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs

The work was juried by a panel of West Virginia published authors.

Your next step is to contact Sue accord, your book buyer, who may be reached at: phone and address here.

Again, congratulations! We look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,

Robin Watson
Artisan Services Coordinator

We can learn a lot from animals.

Animals are often used to help people.

There are seeing-eye-dogs, police dogs, reading therapy dogs, guard dogs and so much more. I saw a dog on the news that helps a 3-year-old know when her sugar is low. I regret to say that I didn't get the name or I would have blogged an entry about her here.

An an interesting article by Silvia Foti caught my attention today (Thanksgiving Day). It was called "How Pets Teach Children Empathy and Compassion."

Empathy is a concern for other people. It is the ability to understand how another person could feel and to care about that person's feelings.

Foti (2009, Aug. 1) argues that children share a special bond with animals and that they can teach children a lot about compassion, responsiblity, concern for others and more.

Dogs help teach children social interaction skills. I [Danny Pettry] had read about a study that shows children who were blind (with a guide dog) had more social contacts and connections opposed to children who were blind (without a guide dog).

Foti also shares information about a violence prevention program for youth in Las Angeles. It is called TLC and it uses dogs to help these children develop empathy and compassion. I think this is wonderful. I'm going to research TLC and see if they're still open and running.


Here is the link for the article if you'd like to read it:

http://www.everydayhealth.com/pet-health/pets-teach-kids-compassion.aspx


Would you like for your child to learn lessons on emapthy, kindness, patience, and more? If so, check out my children's book, "Building Character with help from Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs. It focuses on 15 tips that help teach children about character.

Go here:

West Virginia ranked last in Education.

Click on any of these logos to share this article on facebook, myspace, twitter, etc."

Share
|

West Virginians are often joked about as being uneducated.

Of course, I don't like these jokes because I was born and raised in West Virginia.

Problem identified: I regret to say that there may be some truth about these jokes.

The Daily Mail (Charleston, W.Va) newspaper featured an article by the Associated Press on Sat. Nov. 20th, titled, “W.Va. 12th-graders lag behind national average.”

Here are some of the facts:

• There are 11 states (including West Virginia) that are monitored in the U.S. Dept. of Education’s National Assessment of Education Progress test.
• West Virginia ranked last out of the 11 states.
• 48% of W.Va. seniors scored below basic skills in math proficiency.
• 32% scored below basic reading skills in reading proficiency.
  

My comments:
Education is important. We already know this. People need basic reading and math skills for daily living. Almost every job requires some type of reading and math. Take a customer service person at any fast food restaurant. They need the skills to read the menu and count the correct change.

I learned that education is important from the constant repetition of it from an early age. My father Danny Pettry (senior) was an elementary school principal like my grandfather Posey Pettry. My grandmother Carrie Pettry-Phillips was an elementary school principal. Many relatives in my family were also educators. I got to hear about the importance of education on a constant basis during holiday and family reunion.

I think both parents and teachers should remind children that it is important and that it is possible for the child to learn.

I like one movie that displayed a new teacher and a student. The student said he was sitting outside of the classroom because he couldn’t learn. The new teacher said told the child his name was “John Doe.” The teacher then asked the child. What was my name? Of course the boy answered it and the teacher replied, “You just learned my name. Let’s see how much more you can learn in a day.” I don’t know, but it is a start.

Potential solutions:

I’m not an expert in the field of education. I am a Recreational Therapist at a hospital for children in West Virginia.

1. Make learning fun. Of course, this is coming from a “Recreational” Therapist. Based on my experiences, children seem to be naturally interested in learning. They seem to gravitate towards learning and exploring all on their own. They ask a lot of questions. They show interest in many things. That is, until they get in school. I’m not sure why, but school (based on my experiences) has the stigma as being “boring and uninteresting.” The big question is: how do you make learning fun? You’re an adult. I imagine that you’d cringe to hear that you’d be required to attend a training session in a classroom from 7:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. I doubt children with short attention spans would be interested in learning in that type of environment. I think it would be best to find ways to make education more recreational in nature. I had a friend who learned how to multiple a lot faster than me. He played a lot of sports. He knew: 7, 14, 21, and 28. Why? He played football. He learned to count by two a lot faster too because he played basketball. I didn’t play either sport.

• Give the children more autonomy and freedom in the classroom. Let them decide how they’d like to be taught. Ask if they’d rather have reading assignments, group discussions, slide-show presentations. Develop games to help the children learn.

• Classroom idea: Take picture of children holding up a book that they’re currently reading and post it on the back bulletin board for the month. It could make reading seem to be socially acceptable. Every child in the class would have his or her photo posted with a book. You’ll hear the comments whispered in the hallway. “I saw that Johnny is reading ‘the Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Did you know that Sally said the brick road is actually red in ‘the Wizard of Oz’ book? Maybe I should read it, too.”
  
  If you’re a parent or a teacher then I highly recommend that you get your child involved with books. Give a child a book. Of course, I’m going to recommend that you get started today. I buy my nephew Gage (3-year-old) one new book a month (for his age level). I’m pleased to say that I got him over 12 new books in 2010 and plan to continue this goal in 2011 too.
  
  Book recommendation – Give your child my children’s book (for ages 7 to 13). Here is the link:
  
  
  
  
  If you’re an adult who is interested in learning how to become more successful then I highly recommend that you read my first self-improvement book, “Discover Hidden Secret Wisdom.” It is chock full of wisdom on success and becoming great.
  

Finally, if you'd like some motivation for getting started, then check out this book:



Click on any of these logos to share this article on facebook, myspace, twitter, etc."

Share
|

Dark Books for Teens

I was at the West Virginia Book Festival in Charleston, W.Va. last month (Oct. 2010) with copies of my children's book Building Character. I got to meet many other authors, too.

Lands Atlantic Publishing House was a vendor at the 2010 West Virginia Book Festival in Charleston, W.Va. last month (Oct. 2010). The publish books for young adults.

I [Danny Pettry have discovered that I find most enjoyment from reading books from the "young adult" section! Many books in the young adult section and even teen books aimed for women seem to have a dark edge to them (based on my experiences) reading them.

I regret to say that I'm not sure who the woman in this picture is. She is with the publishing company or one of the signing authors. She is holding two interesting books.

Book # 1 (up front) that she is holding is called "The Pace."

It is the first book in a series about a man named Weston. He isn't immortal, but this guy does not age. An 18-year-old named Sophie wants to find out why. In her quest to discover why she uncovers something about her own life that she might not want to know.

Here is the amazon link for book # 1:




Here is the amazon link for book # 2:




Book # 2 (in the back) that she's holding is Jennifer Murgia's book "Angel Star."

It is a book about a 17-year-old girl named Teagan. She falls in love with her guardian angel who has came to Earth.
I like how Murgia puts it, “where there is light, dark follows.”
Another angel threatens the life of Teagan and all the people who she knows.
This book sounds exciting. The follow-up book Lemniscate will be released in 2011. That is exciting. I love hearing about creative people who are creating things!

Here is an amazon link for the book:

Do Something Wonderful Today!

My good friend Jessica is an animal lover.

She shared this video on her facebook page today.

I feel so upset to see an animal being treated bad. I'm a Recreational Therapist for children who've suffered abuse.

I've heard people make a statement about the type of videos that Jessica has posted. They turn the channel. They send requests not to send these type of videos. Why? Maybe they can't deal with the emotions associated with these videos. Maybe it would be easier not to look. That is the problem. People don't want to look and see the truth. They'd rather turn their head and "pretend" it isn't real.



Please take the time to be aware that these things do happen.
Help children and animals who've been abused.

Here is a link for you to help a dog named Lizzie. She was left on the side of a dangeorus road and has been hurt. She needs your help today:

Note: A $100 donation has been made to help Lillie in honor of my children's book "Building Character with Sam, Izzy, and Many Other Dogs."

Here is the link... Go visit it Right Now:
http://littlevictories.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1230&Itemid=94

BONUS Offer: Email me if you make a $50 donation or more before the deadline. I'll send you a copy of my children's book Building Character with Sam and Izzy. for making a donation to help Lizzie. My email is: Danny (at) DannyPettry.com

Kaitlyn Brannin (Elem. School Girl) Writes Book!

I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Kaitlyn Brannin and her mother Sandy at the W. Va. Book Festival in Charleston, West Virginia. They’re in the picture above.
Kaitlyn is in elementary school and she is the author of Arteo and A Return to Arteo, which she had written with her mother. I was very inspired by her. I can’t believe she is published and so young.


These were the only two books that I had purchased at the book festival.
I’m a Recreational Therapist for children. Sometimes I use books, stories, and movies in my approach to helping children learn and develop social skills, emotional awareness, and empathy for others. I am reading the first book Arteo with the children now. We discuss the difference between reality and make-believe and how the characters could feel.


You may want to check these two books out.
They’re available at these two Amazon links below:

Do you have a library card?

Do you have a library card?

If not, you need to get one.

Reading is so important.

My favorite motivational speaker, the late Jim Rohn said, "the book you don't read won't help you."

Walt Disney said, "There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate's loot on Treasure Island [all you have to do is read them.]

Abe Lincoln said something along the lines that a person who brings him a book that he has not read would be his friend.

I [Danny Pettry] beleive that wisdom is hidden in books (both fiction and non-fiction). However, you must read them to discover the secrets. I had written a self-improvement book called Discover Hidden Secret Wisdom. It was on the importance of reading. Part of the profits went to First Book, which is a non-profit group that provides books to children in need.

I was at the W.Va. Book Festival!



Here is a picture of my sister, my mother and myself at the Book Festival. I had a booth to promote my first children’s book, “Building Character with Sam, Izzy, and Many Other Dogs.”



Kanawha (pronounced: /kəˈnɑː/) is a county in West Virginia. The county seat is Charleston, which is also the state capitol of West Virginia.


Kanawha County is one of the main sponsors for the West Virginia Book Festival. So naturally, the Kanawha County Public Library was there.

Here is a picture of the Kanawha County book mobile in the Charleston Town Center where the Book Festival was held. I thought having that indoors was wild.



Here are some more fun pictures from the W. Va. Book Fair:





The Kanawha county Public Library has Teen Services. Teens can stay informed on programs, contests, new books and more. You can click the “like” button for their facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charleston-WV/Kanawha-County-Public-Library/162450860303?ref=ts&v=wall#!/pages/Charleston-WV/Kanawha-County-Public-Library-Teen-Services/123854341003395

I [Danny Pettry] am a big fan of teen books. As many people already know, I didn’t read a full book until I was 18-years-old. I think catching up on reading is one reason I like teen books so much now.

I'm the author of a few books.
You can get more information about them at these amazon links below:

Dogs are loyal

My book "Building character with many other dogs" teaches 15 character traits using pictures of animals. These include: being genersous, helpful, and more.

Watch this quick video to see how dogs are "loyal" too.

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2010/11/05/dnt.dog.defines.loyalty.wfaa?hpt=T2

Go here to get a copy of my book with 15 great tips for building character....

Please Help Lillie.

Dear friend,

Please help a little, cute dog named Lillie.

The story will bring tears to your eyes if you have a heart.

This poor dog was found with missing fur, sores all over, and a dangling leg.

This dog needs a surgery. Please help.

A total of $505 have been raised of the $1,600 needed.

A small $100 donation was made in honor of "Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs" Today.

Go here to make a small pledge today.

you can do it on paypal.

http://littlevictories.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1230&Itemid=94

Interesting children's book.

Do you ever see a book cover or title that just jumps out at you?

Here is one that jumped out at me.

Photo taken at 2010 W.Va. Book Fair.

My nephew calls me “Uncle Cookie” or sometimes just “cookie” because he knows I love cookies. I’m also guilty for sneaking him pieces of a giant Great American Cookie around birthdays and holidays. Once his mother asked, “who gave you that?” This was after she must have said he wasn’t allowed any more of the giant cookie. His response was, “cookie gave it to me.”

I did a quick Amazon search and found many more fun children books like:
I have a nephew who’ll be 4-years-old in February. I give him one children’s book every month to help him learn to love reading. I think I may start giving these books to him.

If you give a cat a cupcake.
If you take a mouse to the movies.
If you take a mouse to school.
If you give a pig a pancake.

Here are the Amazon link so you can check them out, too:



If you’ve not done so already, please check out my book for children. It helps them to build character.

Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ)

Have you heard of Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.)?

I had the privilege to meet Bailey at the 2010 West Virginia Book Festival in Charleston, W.Va.
Bailey is a Registered Therapy Dog.

I’m a Recreational Therapist (as you probably already know). Naturally, I’ve seen and worked with Therapy dogs in a variety of hospitals, nursing homes and treatment centers.
Bailey is a little different. This dog visits schools and libraries.


Children read to Bailey. As you already know, dogs offer unconditional acceptance of people. They don’t care if you’re tall or small or if you’re from Asia, Africa, or South America. They generally accept all people.


Some children have anxiety when reading aloud. I [Danny Pettry II] am a good example of this. I knew in 1st-grade that there were two reading groups. One group had the majority of children who could read well. The other group had children who struggled. We had simpler books. I felt stereotyped as being in the “dumb” group. I also had an extra reading assistance course during several of my elementary school years. I was excused from science class to go to this reading course. I wish we would have had a dog like Bailey in this class. I think I would have personally enjoyed reading to a dog in elem. school. I would have probably tried a lot harder. I imagine the dog wouldn’t laugh when I would read aloud words like “gum” when it actually read “gym.”

Bailey is owned by Jim Wilmoth. (West Virginia area). Teachers and people with children may be interested in sending him a quick email to learn about Bailey and what he can do for children.

Jim’s email is:
jimsdoghouse (at) suddenlink.net


Notice the “@” sign has been replaced with “at” to prevent automated searches from spamming his email address.

You may also be interested in the Intermountain Therapy Animals:
http://www.therapyanimals.org/

You may also be interested in my children’s book.

It features pictures of cute animals (mostly dogs, but some kittens). It is read like a children’s book, but is like a Trojan horse. It is a lesson book in disguise. Parents, teachers, and people who work with children can find this book to be a useful way to teach character lessons to children, including: being generous, accepting of others, responsible, considerate, respectful and more.

Read more about this book at the Amazon link below:





I’ve already decided that Volume II of Building Character with the Help from Animals will benefit R.E.A.D. if they’ll accept a donation (which I feel certain they will).
I’d like to donate $1,000 worth of copies of Volume II for R.E.A.D. to give away to children.

I may just give the first $1,000 profits to this organization.
I’ll keep you posted as soon as I contact and hear back from them.

Building Character got 5 out of 5 Stars!

Readers Favorite Book Reviews and Awards gave "Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs 5 out of 5 Stars!

They had also written a very positive review for the book.
Read it here:

http://readersfavorite.com/cat-71.htm?review=3605

Fun Children's Book -- Teaches About Stereotypes.

The therapeutic use of books and stories (also known as Bibliotherapy) is one of the techniques I use to help children as a Recreational Therapist.

I provide services for children who in general are physically and verbally aggressive. Many of them lack self-esteem and social skills.

I’m always on the look-out for books and resources that could help these children to grow and develop.

I met an interesting children’s author (Catherine Sokol - picture above) who is the author of an amazingly fun book (Hillbilly) at the West Virginia Book Festival in Charleston, West Virginia.

I believe this wonderful children’s book is more than a fun book. It is an awesome opportunity to teach children about stereotypes and how name-calling does hurt. Parents, teachers, and children’s therapists could use this book to help their children to understand stereotypes.
Catherine has a degree in Elementary Education from Fairmont State (Fairmont, West Virginia). She also has a Master’s degree in Psychology and is working towards a Ph.D. in Education.

Her husband is the illustrator for her book.
I admire how Catherine enjoys reading and writing and how she has created a fun picture book for children that focuses on an important issue: stereotypes.
You can get her book at her web-site here:

http://catherinesokol.com/Hillbilly.html

Also, if you’ve not done so already, be sure to check out my children’s book that helps teach children Character Traits, including: patience, kindness, responsibility, acceptance, and more. It uses pictures of cute animals to teach these lessons. Here is an example. A dog that teaches about listening skills has a picture of his ear raised. The dogs that teach about acceptance are two dogs who are best friends despite their differences. Sam is an English Bulldog and her best friend Izzy is a Chihuahua.

Go here to get it:

Benefit for owning a Cat.

My friend Jessica shared an interesting link on her facebook page today.

It shared 17 Health Benefits for Owning a Cat.

I thought many of my Recreational Therapist followers may be interested in this article.

Several Recreational Therapists uses animal-assisted therapy or pet therapy programs for the treatment of their patients.

Here is the link for you to view on the benfits:


http://mritechnicianschools.net/2010/17-health-benefits-of-owning-a-cat

Also -- if you've not done so already -- check out my book that teaches character values to children. It uses pictures of cute animals. Here is an example. The dog that teaches listening has a picture of his ear up.

Go here now:

Cute Pet Contest!

This is a FREE contest.

Deadline is Jan. 31, 2011.

Winners will have their pet picture featured in an upcoming Vol. 2 of a popular children’s book.

You'll be also entered in a chance to win $100.

This a ramdon drawing. Each picture you submit is worth one entry. You can submit as many photos as you wish. You can send more than one picture in each email. Send more than one email if you have a lot of photos (if attachments may be too big for one email).

Email your pet pictures to:

PetContest@DannyPettry.com

Please include:

• your pet's name
• your name, and
• home or work address.
• Only send pictures that you've taken.

I’d have to send you a release of photography form to use your picture in the book.

Your friend,
Danny

Here is the first picture submitted from my good friend Jen F. from Morgantown, W.Va.

Here is a link to

==============================================

A praying dog?

Is this dog really praying?
Watch the video.



Have you heard all the ways that the book "Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs" can help children? This book features picture of cute dogs (and cats) with messages on character traits like being patient, kind, and generous.

Get this book for a child who you care about today. Go here:

Are you a winner?

Erica from Charleson, West Virginia won a copy of "Building Character with Sam, Izzy, & Many Other Dogs." She was one of 47 people who had completed a contest entry form at my booth during the West Virginia Book Fair at the Charleston Civic Center.

Erica will get her book in the mail in the next few days.

The other 46 applicants will receive a flyer in the mail with more info. about the book. As always -- their names and contact information won't be shared with any un-authorized third parties.

Want more information about this book? Go here:

2010 West Virginia Book Festival.

I took my children's book to the 2010 West Virginia Book Festival. I am very pleased with the number of copies sold! Many people said they had plans to buy it on amazon.com soon.

Here is a copy of the book at my stand.

We handed out some of the Limited Edition Collector Cards that go along with the book. I had also given away about 150 trick-or-treat bags to children with candy, collector cards, and other fun stuff.

Here is my booth/ stand area. See my coffee on the table?

My sister Carrie [to the left]. She is Izzy's owner. My mother [in the middle] holding a copy of my children's book. and me [on the right].

Here is a link for the book on Amazon. Get your copy today:




Here is a poster that I created.

Here is Baley. He is a therapy dog. This dog knows several Recreational Therapists in West Virginia. Why was this dog at the book fair? Well, children read to him at libraries.

Baley lying on the floor. This dog is so calm.

Kaitlyn Brannin and her mother Sandy. Kaitlyn is in elem. school and she the author of the novel Arteo and her new book, A Return to Arteo.I was very inspired by her. I can't believe she is published and so young. I purchased both of her books. It is a children's fantasy story.

Here is a link for both of her books:

Yes, the Dr. was there.

Of course I had to take a picture of a dog. A girl started talking to me at the end of the book fair. She said I had taken her picture and I replied, "I don't think so." She was wearing this costume.

Kanawaha County, W.Va. Bookmobile in the Charleston Civic Center.

Do something good & get a FREE Cookie

I love October.

It is national cookie month. in case you don't know I love cookies. My newphew Gage calls me unclue cookie. (please laugh aloud now).

Oct. is also national book month.

The Great American Cookie Company is doing something wonderful...

During October, you can receive a FREE Cookie of Your Choice by donating a new or gently read book at your local Great American Cookies store.

All books collected at each store will be offered as a donation to a local branch of the public library or a local charity.

Go and order two copies of my book right now. Keep one for yourself. Give the second copy to your local Great American Cookie Co.

Here is the link:
http://www.amazon.com/Building-Character-Izzy-Many-Other/dp/1453835318/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286762022&sr=8-2

your friend,

Danny

Teaching Acceptance

I read a very interesting article on CNN today.

There is a summit that brings students together from different backgrounds.

It is called Power of Prejudice or just [POP].

They teach children about racism, bullying, and prejudice.

I am a big fan of acceptance of others. As you probably already know, the first chapter in my children's book, Building Character is on acceptance.

There were some very positive outcomes from the summit.

You can read the full article here:

http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/10/04/bullying.pop.summit/index.html?hpt=Mid

You can read sample pages of my children's book on building character at this page:

http://www.amazon.com/Building-Character-Izzy-Many-Other/dp/1453835318/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286846381&sr=8-1

More Children's Books

I often quote my favorite motivational speaker the late Jim Rohn.

He said, "the book you don't read won't help you."

I'd like to add that the book you don't read to your child won't help her (or him).

Today, I'd like to let you know about an amazing blog that I discovered.

It is called Read Aloud Dad. The father carefully picks children's books to read to his twins. He reviews them at his blog.

His blog is bright, colorful, easy to read, interesting, and full of wonderful book recommendations for children.

I've worked as a recreational therapist for children for the last 8-years. I often look for children's books that can be used for a therapeutic purpose in treatment. I think this new blog is going to be very beneficial for me as a rec therapist.

And I think it could be very benficial for any parent or teacher.

Here is the link:


http://readalouddad.blogspot.com

To Pet Owners: We Want Pictures...

Dear Pet Owner...

Contest --

We're looking for cute pet pictures.


Please email pictures of your pet (that you've taken) to me at:

Contest@dannypettry.com

I'll post your pet pictures at this blog or a flickr photo sharing account.

We'll have people vote on them. Maybe we'll make a collage of cute pets for a poster.
I'm not sure what we'll do with them yet. -- just email them.

And Be Sure To Write a Short Blurb About Your Pet Too.

Example:

Chaser is 1-year-old Italian Greyhound. She likes to run and she is very fast. We had to "chase her" so much that we decided to call her Chaser.

Please tell other people about this contest. Use these share buttons below to share on facebook, twitter, and myspace:

Share
|

Cute Pet Picture Contest.
Email your pictures today.
Get your pet picture posted at this blog!

Testimonials for book...

Read all of the eye-popping testimonials

We received our copy of the book today and love it!!!!! You did such a fantastic job. I started reading it to my son, Sean (he's 6), and he enjoyed it, too. He laughed out loud at the pictures in the listening chapter. Nice job getting them out so quickly, and for working so hard on this book. All your efforts will certainly pay off, b/c many people are going to learn so much from this book, and get much enjoyment out of it as well. Great work!
- Denise, Recreational Therapist, North Carolina

I was so excited to get my new book about these adorable dogs and their friends! My children are 9 and 4 and both were sitting still, reading, and acting downright civilized for a half-hour, together, with me! The book is easy to read, has wonderful pictures and teaching points, and exceeds what I thought it would be, even though my expectations were high! Thank you, Danny, Sam, Izzy, and everyone involved for bringing these books and products to be. I recommend these highly for anyone involved in the lives of children - teachers, nurses, therapists, parents, the list goes on and on.
- Bonita, Nusrse, West Virginia

I really like how this book is put together in small lessons or chapters. I work at an adult mental hospital, but find many of these lessons are needed in the clients that I see. The way each skill is set out in the book, I can teach them in 1 session per chapter, without losing the attention span of my audience! This also gives me a quick "fall back on" session idea when I have to fill in quickly with minimal preparation time. Thanks!
- Brent, Recreational Therapist, West Virginia

This book has so many wonderful aspects. The pictures are funny. The pages are bright and colorful. But most importantly, Sam and Izzy teach kids how to be good people and get along with others. This is a must for any household with children. If you don't have kids, I'm sure you know someone that does. This is a great book for animal lovers, too.
Buy it today!!!
:)
- Missy, Social Worker, West Virginia

Danny Pettry's newest book will teach character lessons to young children using colorful pictures, character trading cards, as well as a coloring/ activity book. This unique system uses animals to engage children and will be a valuable tool for teachers, therapists and parents alike.
- Tracy, Physical Therapist, Ohio

Danny Pettry's books are always incredibly motivating. I'm so excited to see him authoring this children's book and can't wait to share it with my own daughters.
- Kimberly Grandal, CTRS, ACC/EDU, Therapeutic Rec/ Activity Educator, New Jersey

This book is educational and the cards are fun. It is well thought-out and will be a delight to read with your children.
- Sarah Howe, BSW/LSW, Social Worker, West Virginia

As a teacher who teaches kids with very special needs, I am always looking for new and exciting ways to teach the children in my class. Danny Pettry's new book is just the thing I've been looking for! My kids will love learning character education with his stimulating book, trading cards, and activity book!
- Melanie Daniels, Teacher, West Virginia

Our children need creative methods on character and human relations. Danny's Petty's book will do just that, by using animals with natural instincts that children can relate too. I believe the outcome will be proven when the children will be asked to describe the pictures... I look forward to share it with my grandson.
- Brenda Torres, CTRS, Recreational Therapist, New York

Click here for more reviews.

You Can Get The Book at this Amazon Link Here:

About the Book.

Danny Pettry is a Recreational Therapist who specializes in working with children (ages 7 to 12) who have mental and behavioral health needs.

Now he has put together an astonishing children’s book to help ALL children have better social health and wellness.
Danny Pettry’s book teaches character lessons to children using colorful pictures of animals. This book is a valuable tool for teachers, group leaders, therapists and parents alike.
This book covers social skills and character values like:
• Accepting others
• Compromising
• Having good sportsmanship
• Being respectful, generous, helpful, empathetic, and more.
• This book helps children learn how to make friends and get along with others.

You’d like for your child or a child you know to develop and improve these skills, wouldn't you? You like pictures of cute animals don’t you?

All right then. Just read the book to your child.

Danny Pettry's books are always incredibly motivating. I'm so excited to see him authoring this children's book and can't wait to share it with my own daughters.
- Kimberly Grandal,CTRS, ACC/EDU
Therapeutic Rec/ Activity Educator
New Jersey

As a teacher who teaches kids with very special needs, I am always looking for new and exciting ways to teach the children in my class. Danny Pettry's new book is just the thing I've been looking for! My kids will love learning character education with his stimulating book, trading cards, and activity book!
- Melanie Daniels
Licensed Teacher
West Virginia

New Children's Book Promotes Social Wellness

Read this special report:

http://www.dannypettry.com/copy_letter.htm

Watch video.

FREE Sample Pictures From Book.

You can download some FREE sample pages from my upcoming children's book.

Go here now:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/DannyPettry/announcing-an-amazing-picture-book-that-teaches-ch/posts/25559

Enjoy.

your friend,

Danny.

Do You Know the Big Problem with Children’s Education?

Do You Know the Big Problem with Children’s Education?
By: Danny Pettry, M.S., CTRS, Recreational Therapist

Children need the best education possible. Cliché as it sounds, children really are the future. Our current education might not be the best for our children. Education might not be addressing what children really need. Sure, they do an effective job at teaching the basics: English, math, and reading. Children do need have these basic skills for any future occupation. Most jobs require a person to read, write, and do at least some math. There may be a better solution.

The Problem

Research is showing that test scores aren’t the best indicator of who’ll be the most successful in college and in life. Alfie Kohn had pointed out several of these studies in his (2001) article Two Cheers for an end to the Sat that was featured in the Chronicle of Higher Education. So, our problem is: What do children need in order to be successful in life?

The Solution

Children could benefit from learning successful living habits.

A few years ago a friend of mine (a computer specialist) asked what I did for children as a recreational therapist. I provide services for children with mental health and behavior health needs. I told him that I use a mix of activity-based interventions to help children meet goals as part of an overall treatment plan under the recommendation and supervision of a physician. I told my brother that some of the sessions I provide include: social skills training, relaxation skills training, anger management, self-esteem, teambuilding, life skills, and many other skills. My friend jokingly replied that these children have a better advantage of those children in public school because they don’t offer these services.

Daniel Goleman argues that social and emotional intelligence may be a better predictor of which children will be more successful in life. Social intelligence has to do with the understanding of social relationships. Emotional intelligence has to do with compassion, concern for others, awareness of how others could feel (empathy), and ability to build rapport with others. Goleman points out multiple research studies that support his argument in his books.

Announcing – An Amazing Picture Book for Children That Teaches Character Values and Social Skills by Danny Pettry.

Danny Pettry is creating a fun picture book that children will benefit from. It features two cute dogs, Sam, an English Bulldog, and Izzy, a Chihuahua. They accept each other despite their differences.

Children will receive many personal benefits from this complete program that includes:

a.) a picture book for children;

b.) 15 character education trading cards; and

c.) fun game/ activities for teachers and group leaders that are featured in the back of the children’s book.

This program will help children learn how to:

a.) make more friends;
b.) feel better about themselves;
c.) understand the difference between right and wrong;
d.) be an effective listener;
e.) be more patient;
f.) have more concern for others;
g.) get along with others;
h.) calm down;
i.) solve-problems;
j.) be a better team player; and
k.) so much more.

You can pledge to help create this program. The deadline for pledges is Sept. 12, 2010. You’ll get more rewards and benefits for higher pledges.
Go here to watch a short video about this upcoming book/ program:

The Bookmark

I've created a bookmark that goes with the

Sam and Izzy book. See it in the picture here.

It has a link to this blog on the back of it.

Enter for a chance to win the upcoming "Sam and Izzy" picture book.

Here is the link:

http://www.dannypettry.com/contest.html

New Video Book Tralier!

“The Adventures of Sam and Izzy” Book Trailer Has Been Released Today! Watch It. Love It. Pledge if you like it. Post your comments below.

New pictures.

Sam.

Izzy.

Sam and Izzy are friends.

Me. Danny holding Izzy.

Sam walking.

Here is a picture of Sam walking...

Izzy

Here is one of my favorite pictures of Izzy...

Blog Entry # 1

Sam and Izzy are two dogs who live in a small town in West Virginia.

Sam is a female English Bulldog.
Izzy is a female Chihuahua.

They’re two very different dogs who like each other.

Keep following this blog for more information.