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Cover of Why Can’t They Come Over?

Military families · Read a preview

Why Can’t They Come Over?

A children’s story about PTSD, understanding, and belonging in a veteran family. Follow Abie’s question about the neighboring children, then explore everyday ways to make room for others.

Inside the preview: The story opening, Abie’s question to her parents, and the Make Room worksheet.

By Tad Steckler

Reader guide

For
Recommended ages 6–10
How to use it
Read with a parent or trusted grown-up
This book
Illustrated story · 36 pages

From the book to your conversation

Practice making room for someone.

The Make Room worksheet starts with a family left out at a picnic. Talk through welcoming words, an invitation to join a game, and how to stay kind when someone says “Not today.”

See the Make Room worksheet ↗

Take a look inside.

Enjoy three selected pages from the book. Open any page at full size for a closer look.

Zoey and Abie sit outdoors with other children at the start of the story.
1. Story openingOpen full-size page ↗
Abie asks her parents whether the neighboring children can come over.
2. Inside the storyOpen full-size page ↗
Make Room activity with welcoming words, choices, and space to write.
3. Workbook sampleOpen full-size page ↗

Check the Amazon listing for current formats, pricing, and delivery options before ordering.

Selected pages are shown in full. Preview pages may be nonconsecutive. Text and artwork © their respective authors and creators. All rights reserved.

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More ways to enjoy the book

A matching creative companion is planned.

We are developing a matching coloring companion for this title. It is not yet available to purchase. Each companion will link back to its original book so you can find the pair. Books will be sold separately.

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