To succeed and overcome challenges, students need to develop constructive, positive thinking – an approach that gets things done, even when difficulties arise.

That means students understand the ways to be proactive and develop a ‘can do’ approach to challenges.

At the Primary School level, we are helping students do that via a virtual music group called the Can Do Kids Band.

They are a group of five talented young people from different parts of the world. As they travel across the globe, the Can Do Kids Band demonstrates what it means to embrace a proactive ‘can do’ approach. Through their visits and explorations, they show primary students everywhere how to face challenges with confidence, curiosity and resilience.

Each member of the Can Do Kids Band brings their own special qualities to the table:

• Amy, the versatile lead singer from the USA, inspires with her energy and passion.
• Ace, the dynamic drummer from South Africa, keeps the beat going, showing the importance of rhythm and persistence.
• Lin, the clever keyboard player from China, accompanies the band with the ability to play in many international styles.
• Ravi, the cool bass guitarist from India, illustrates the importance of teamwork and fun.
• Oz, the adventurous lead guitarist from Australia, welcomes learning from amazing experiences.

Together, they explore the food, dance, folk stories, music and ways of life from different cultures, engaging with students from countries like Brazil, Canada, France, India, Japan, Spain, China, the USA and more.

Their website showcases their inspiring journey, teaching children all over the world how to embrace new cultures, overcome obstacles and develop a Can Do mindset.

Can Do Skills for Primary Students:

The Can Do approach is about taking action and actively engaging with challenges. Here are 10 key “Can Do” skills that primary students can develop:

1. Can Do: Focus
   Staying focused helps students tackle their work with dedication, even when distractions arise.
   Example: Staying on task even when friends want to talk and play.
   Self-Talk: “I can focus and get this done!”
2. Can Do: Confidence
   Self-belief is essential for success. Students can feel empowered to try new things and tackle difficult tasks.
   Example: Trying a challenging subject, even if it seems hard at first.
   Self-Talk: “I believe I can do this!”
3. Can Do: Patience
   Progress takes time, and being patient when things do not happen immediately is important.
   Example: Continuing to work on a puzzle even when it takes longer than expected.
   Self-Talk: “I can be patient and keep trying.”
4. Can Do: Effort
   Success is not just about being smart; it is about determination and working through challenges.
   Example: Trying again after failing, because persistence is key.
   Self-Talk: “I can keep trying, I will not give up!”
5. Can Do: Learning
   Learning from daily action helps students grow..
   Example: Reflecting on what happens and looking for better ways to act.
   Self-Talk: “I can learn and grow, even if I make mistakes along the way.”
6. Can Do: Curiosity
   Being curious encourages students to ask questions and explore the world around them.
   Example: Wanting to learn more about how things work, like the science behind a project.
   Self-Talk: “I am curious, and I can discover new things!”
7. Can Do: Flexibility
   Life does not always go as planned, but being flexible helps students adapt and keep moving forward.
   Example: Changing plans when something unexpected happens.
   Self-Talk: “I can adapt to change and find new solutions.”
8. Can Do: Problem-Solving
   Learning how to solve problems builds confidence and resilience.
   Example: Thinking of different ways to approach a tricky project.
   Self-Talk: “I can figure this out, even if it is tricky.”
9. Can Do: Accountability
   Taking responsibility for your actions builds trust and a sense of achievement.
   Example: Taking the initiative and offering to contribute.
   Self-Talk: “I can take responsibility for my actions.”
10. Can Do: Optimism
    Staying positive, even when things do not go as planned, helps students continue their journey toward success.
    Example: Looking for options when facing setbacks.
    Self-Talk: “I can stay positive, and things will get better.”