Christine was a below-average student with an above-average number of problems. Her mother drank; she never knew her father; and she was ostracized by the other sixth-grade children because of her poor social skills. In addition, her plain looks, poor study skills, and unpleasant personality did nothing to endear her to her teachers. Her mother sought therapy for her at the school's insistence but was unwilling to become otherwise involved. Nevertheless, just six months and twenty-four therapy sessions later, Christine had transformed into a super tween.

The sessions began with Christine playing secretary and organizing the therapist's desk and drawers. She expressed a wish to have money like the other kids at her school, but she lacked any hobbies, interests, or other goals. When she learned about personal goal setting, she picked money as her goal and thought that baby-sitting would be a great way to earn it. That didn't sound reasonable for a troubled twelve-year-old, but the therapist nevertheless set about helping her figure out how to get started by suggesting that she interview some teen baby-sitters to learn more.

A few weeks later, the therapist was surprised to find out that Christine had found and enrolled in baby-sitting and first-aid courses. She compiled a baby-sitting kit by filling a small suitcase with toys and a notepad for recording background and emergency information from parents. The therapist then suggested she make brochures to advertise her services in her neighborhood. Christine did, and then went door to door to drum up business; however, she always received the same response: She was too young.

Since money was Christine's goal and baby-sitting only a means to an end, and since she had demonstrated such determination and exceptional organizational skills, the therapist suggested she find older girls to baby-sit. Christine could handle the advertising, scheduling, and billing for a small percentage. A week later Christine had her first employee. A week after that, she had arranged the first job for her first employee. Six months later Christine had four teens working for her and was complaining about irresponsible workers.

Her take-charge attitude extended to school and her grades improved. Although friends continued to elude her, her skills as a businesswoman saved her from loneliness. The last time she saw the therapist, Christine mentioned that she was tired of her business but still wanted the money. When the therapist pointed out to her that she could hire and train someone else to run the business for her in exchange for a small percentage of the profits, her eyes lit up, and it was clear she intended to do just that.