Have you noticed how apologizing has become almost a lost art these days? A great number of adults lately (not kids!) seem to have forgotten how–from government officials to movie stars to plagarizing authors to “poor-sport” athletes. And if the offender does give an apology, notice how it often sounds insincere?

How are kids going to learn this great skill unless we model it ourselves?

That’s why I adore Trudy Ludwig’s book, “Sorry!” (Tricycle Press – available on amazon or in your local bookstore). It’s plain wonderful. I have to admit I’m a big fan of Trudy’s books (her other books “My Secret Bully” and “Just Kidding” are fabulous also).

Rarely do children’s books model for young readers personal accountability and responsibility the way Sorry! does. Trudy’s thoughtful, one-of-a-kind story on the power of apology shows how a child can take ownership of a hurtful behavior and then right his or her wrong.

The story also offers invaluable life lessons on empathy and compassion to children (and adults) alike. Trudy’s story helps kids see from the other side — how their actions were hurtful and why they should make amends.

Pick up a copy! Use it in your classroom, Boys and Girls Club, or with your kids at home. It’s one of those perfect books you want to keep on your shelf for the perfect moment.

And then teach your kids the simple five steps for apologizing and making amends.The skill of apologizing (along with 25 other critical friendship skills) is from my book, Nobody Likes Me, Everybody Hates Me: The Top 25 Friendship Problems and How to Solve Them. Many teachers are turning the steps into a chart and posting it in their classroom. You’ll have to model these steps with your children until they finally understand the parts of a sincere apology.

Keep in mind that the easiest way for kids to learn how to apologize is by copying our own example. So the next time (and the next….and the next….) you make a mistake, admit it to your kids. Just make sure you add two powerful words, “I’m sorry!”