Ready for Reality by Angela Troppa, LCSW

Outlining a comprehensive foundation for a healthy and self-sufficient life, Ready for Reality: Teaching Kids the Skills They Need to Thrive in the Real World by Angela Troppa, LCSW is an innovative guide for adults as they prepare children for the future.

Following a straightforward structure of seven broad units of knowledge (Household, Safety, Social Skills, etc.), with each divided into related topics, the content can be quickly navigated based on the child’s age, as well as the skills they need to sharpen. From step-by-step explanations of domestic tasks around the home and crucial safety lessons to proper mealtime etiquette and critical social skills, it covers the gamut for functioning in the grown-up world. The discussion questions, skill steps, activities, and “Talk Time” prompts add an interactive element that can increase retention, while meaningfully measuring progress.

On the technical side, the font choice and formatting are not always easy on the eyes, with large block paragraphs, bulleted lists without spacing, and a lack of illustrations, which can make it difficult to find and differentiate specific information. The introductory sections of certain chapters can also occasionally feel rushed, while others have redundant elements, so the informational content is somewhat uneven.

That said, the instruction included is vital, and too often overlooked – what’s obvious for an adult is brand new to a child, and the book carefully outlines the myriad issues that come up in everyday life. More variety in the structure and language could make the book more accessible, as well as engaging for kids, but the core messages are comprehensively detailed and essential.