A small green seedling growing from a gentle mound of earth, representing new beginnings and the courage to try something new
A sprouting seed and the title "I Can Do New Things"
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I Can Do New Things

Want to prepare your child for something new? This story breaks down a new adventure into concrete steps: why we try new things, why we're trying this new thing, where it will take place, who will be there, what we can do if it becomes overwhelming, and the feelings that arise throughout.

New ActivitiesConfidenceResilienceSelf-ManagementDecision MakingSocial StoryOur World

About This Story

What your child will experience

Your child will walk through a new activity step-by-step, in first person, as though rehearsing it in their mind. The story breaks down what the activity is, where it happens, who will be there, what they'll see and do, how they might feel, and what to do if they need a break.

This is a social story—a concrete, predictable preview that reduces anxiety about the unknown.

Why this approach helps

Knowing what to expect helps children feel safer and more in control. By naming feelings, identifying trusted adults, and planning for breaks, this story builds emotional regulation skills and a sense of agency.

Repetition before the real event can make the unfamiliar feel manageable.

What to notice as a parent

Your child's questions or reactions during the story may reveal what worries them most—crowds, sounds, not knowing when it will end. Use their curiosity as a guide for gentle reassurance or real-world preparation (like visiting the location beforehand).

Reread this story multiple times in the days leading up to the new activity for the best effect.

Personalize This Story

Make this story truly special by adding these details:

  • ✓What new activity will the main character try?
  • ✓Where will this activity take place?
  • ✓Who will be there to support the main character?

Story Questions

Questions your child may be asked while creating this story:

  1. Who will help the main character learn about the new activity?
  2. What can the main character do if they need a break?
  3. What can the main character do when it's time to go?

Loved by Families

Join thousands of happy families who've empowered their children with personalized, interactive stories.

“At first I thought it was one of those bedtime ploys to stay up later, but when the request came again first thing in the morning I realized it was just genuine excitement about Wanderly. My two kiddos - ages 7 and 8 - had a blast selecting their adventure pals (they have the cutest "pets" that go on the adventure with them) and choosing the direction of the story every step of the way. I turned up the reading level today and it was neat to see my son work through a few new words and stick with it because he was so excited about his story.”

— Taryn S

“My son couldn't put the story down!”

— Sebastian

“We've been using it every night for bedtime stories for our 3 year old.”

— Matt

“Ok, so I installed this yesterday, and I've already read 5 stories with my 4 year old. That's over an hours worth of time. Today he tried to negotiate to have me read 4 in a row... He's fully engaged, and takes his time over the choices - I think that and the funny moments in the stories are what have him hooked. He lost it when our cat (yes, you can include your pet in a story!) turned into a elephant. As a parent, it's whimsical and a welcome change from the regular books in rotation. I was initially unsure about using my phone to engage him during bedtime, but he entrallment quickly overcame that. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to others.”

— Simon

“It's been fantastic for creating and sharing our stories with beautiful art. What a great keepsake!”

— Shayla

“My dyslexic 4th grader struggles with reading and comprehension. She is finally excited to read using Wanderly!”

— Bill

“As an lifelong educator, I give this app an enthusiastic 5 stars+. With opportunity to choose and name characters, type of story and plot ... what could be more creative? What could be a more productive use of screen time? I love that this app was created and is carefully monitored by a Mom of young kids. She also happens to have technical/AI chops ... she was a Google Product Manager in their Education Products sector. The graphics are quite lovely, the story lines are fun and age-appropriate.”

— Helen

“I'm very impressed with the ease with which I was able to write a fun (and colorful) story. I wrote one for my grandchild and can't wait to share it with her.”

— Bill

GET STARTED

Ready to hear what your child has to say?

Join thousands of families who've used Wanderly to engage their child's imagination, to practice important skills, and to build confidence. Download the app today.

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