Fostering inclusion through children‘s literature

From left to right: Paola Cardenas author, child psychologist, and founder of Sjálfstyrkur, Gísli Herjólfsson, CEO and co-founder of Controlant, and Soffía Elín Sigurdardóttir, author, child psychologist and founder of Sjálfstyrkur.

In the book, protagonists Maya and Maks have recently moved to Iceland and need to adapt to a new society. In Súper Kröftug, or Super Powerful, Maya and Maks learn ways to deal with new circumstances and make friends. The book puts special emphasis on the benefits that participation in sports and hobbies can help children integrate into a new society. Research has shown that participation in sports is an effective way for children to swiftly integrate into new cultures.

Controlant is proud to support the publication of the book, being a workplace welcoming people of 42 different nationalities. At Controlant, we promote inclusion and celebrate diversity, recognizing it as an important strength of our team, not least when it comes to innovation and product development, and international collaboration with our customers and partners.

Paolo Cardenas, author and child psychologist:

"The whole of society benefits when the welfare of children is given first place, and an essential aspect of wellbeing is feeling included. In our book, we uncover ways that children can adapt, make friends, and learn a new language. We are incredibly pleased with the support from Controlant, and through our collaboration, we have found we share a passion for the importance and benefits of inclusion and diversity.“

Early education and prevention promote well-being

Paola and Soffía are experienced child psychologists and together they founded an organization, Sjálfstyrkur, specializing in evidence-based, effective treatment for the mental health, psychological development, and general well-being of children and young adults.

Súper Kröftug is the fourth book in the children's book series about superheroes that convey psycho-education to children and their caregivers in a fun and constructive way.

Soffía Elín Sigurdardóttir, author and child psychologist:

"Education on common psychological issues and matters is one of the most effective preventative measures there is and can significantly increase the wellbeing, quality of life, and future prospects for children. Our books are fun stories about children who possess special superpowers, but also a way to help children develop skills and coping strategies, empower them with a positive self-image, and help them develop insights into their feelings and behaviors. The books also give parents, teachers, and all the important caretakers in children's lives accessible information about the psychological concepts explored in the books.“

Other books in the series include Súper Vitrænn, or Super Insightful, covering sadness and cognitive behavioral therapy; Súper Vidstödd, or Super Mindful, where ADHD, concentration difficulties, and coping strategies such as meditation and yoga are explored, and Súper Vinalegur, or Super Friendly. in which anxiety, social anxiety, and cognitive behavioral therapy are addressed.

Explore more (in Icelandic): https://www.sjalfstyrkur.is/