I Can't Do This, But I CAN Do That
Kids say
Based on 2 reviews
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I Can't Do This, But I CAN Do That
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that I Can't Do This, But I CAN Do That is a 30 minute documentary short about children who are neurodiverse. First premiering in 2010, viewers follow the stories of several children, ages 9 to 12, as they navigate their way through school with various learning differences. Though all the children have different diagnoses, all of their stories are grounded in a general lack of acceptance or misunderstanding from their peers and teachers. As the stories continue, a major theme of the piece is encouragement and hope for students, families, and educators. The documentary inspires viewers to think differently and support greatness in each child based on their strengths.
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What's the Story?
I CAN'T DO THIS, BUT I CAN DO THAT follows the stories of Abby, Quenton, Julia, Joey, and several other children at Denver Academy. Ages 9 to 12, they must navigate school life with the added layer of their various learning differences. Because of their diagnoses, which include dysgraphia, audio processing disorder, dyslexia, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder among others, they face discrimination and bullying at school. The children are positive role models as they inspire others to treat them as equals, and look past their differences. They all accomplish this by highlighting their special talents, such as art, music, and athletics. These talents ultimately outshine the areas where they struggle.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary short is a fresh and educational glimpse into the lives of young children with learning differences. I Can't Do This, But I CAN Do That highlights how these children overcome obstacles that life has places before them from their point of view. With some room for growth in racial diversity, the piece highlights an often overlooked and misunderstood group of our population in an uplifting way. With themes of perseverance, acceptance, and flexible thinking, its a great watch for the entire family.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how in I Can't Do This, But I CAN Do That several young children whose brains work in different ways tell their stories. Did you learn something new from their stories?
What is something that makes you unique? How would you feel if people were mean to you, or treated you differently because of it?
Some of the children in the show like to participate in activities afterschool, like singing, dancing, or tennis. Do you do afterschool activities? Try to make a new friend, who is different from you, next time you participate in your activity.
TV Details
- Premiere date: October 15, 2010
- Cast: Michael Hall D'Addario
- Network: HBO Max
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: Friendship, Great Boy Role Models, Great Girl Role Models
- TV rating: TV-G
- Last updated: October 1, 2021
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