Barbara Gibson-Paul Psy.D., now a licensed marriage, family and child therapist in private practice, said she was passionate about reading books to her own children when they were growing up and always wanted to write one of her own.
"I reailized that there were few stories out there that would help young children understand the importance of setting goals," said the former special education teacher with a doctorate in psychology and a master of arts degree in education.
So she wrote and self-published Max Pays Attention about a 7-year-old boy who has trouble sitting still and following the rules in class. When Max's mom helps motivate him to improve his behavior in school with a novel idea, he finally starts to follow the rules and earns something special.
Max Pays Attention, colorfully illustrated by Patricia Krebs, can help children ages 5-8 with attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, self-esteem and socialization, said Gibson-Paul.
However, the story is applicable to all children, not just those with special needs, she said.
"The book can has meaning to any young child," said the Calabasas resident who has read the book at local preschools.
Currently, the book is available online at Gibson-Paul's website, Creative Kids Publications.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.