For those of you with more than one child, how many times have you heard, “MOMMY, that’s not fair! He got to choose last time…it’s my turn!” or “DADDY, She got a new (insert object of choice), how come I don’t get one?” Siblings naturally cannot help themselves from comparing what they have to their …
Children’s books
Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids (and Their Parents) by Eline Snel
Mindfulness is becoming increasingly popular but what is it? The science and evidence behind its application with children and teens is growing. Mindfulness is being aware, moment to moment of your thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations and the environment around us. We notice these things without judgement. Recognize these sensations and then letting them go. …
Children’s Book Corner: I Love You Rituals by Becky Bailey
In honor of today being Valentine’s day, I wanted to share a wonderful “go to” book I find myself sharing with families and friends. I love this book because of the simplicity of the message and the promise of finding something new and fun to do with your children to show them ANY day that …
Spotlight on Children’s Books: A Beautiful Oops
If you have a child with perfectionist tendencies, you know how hard it can be to find ways to provide support or know what to say in the moment. Has your child ever come to you stuck on their homework because they just couldn’t find the right words for the book report? How about when …
Spotlight on Children’s Books: Happiness Doesn’t Come from Headstands by Tamara Levitt
I have been increasingly interested in mindfulness and its application not just for caregiver wellbeing, but with children as another “tool” to give them to navigate the challenges of life. It is a practice that can help promote emotional self-regulation and attention. While there is limited research thus far among children, I think it shows …
Jonathan James & the What If Monster by Michelle Nelson-Schmidt
I see a lot of kiddos with worries. Sometimes the worries are developmentally appropriate and other times they are a first sign of anxiety. Either way, kids need to know HOW to handle these strong negative feelings. Parents and teachers can help coach kids to recognize and start to cope. This book is authored by …
Spotlight on Children’s Books: Art Detective by Doris Kutschbach
This week I wanted to take a moment to highlight a great and fun book called Art Detection: Spot the Differences! by Doris Kutschbach that encourages young readers to take in and soak up art while spotting differences between real artwork and a forgery. Follow along with the dog Carl (known as Charlie the Sleuth by his …
Sunday Spotlight on Children’s Books: Agatha by Anna Pignataro
Ever wanted to bring about a discussion about how everyone is unique and special in their own right? Meet Agatha…a character who was born with her daddy’s bear nose and her mommy’ pig ears! Agatha is getting ready to start Kindergarten and quickly realizes she does not quite look like anyone else. This warming children’s …
Sunday Spotlight on Children’s Books: Everyone Poops by Taro Gomi
Let’s face it. Young kids quickly become fascinated by their body and how it works. Children’s books can be used to normalize feelings and yes, bodily functions. They can help jump-start or compliment various self-care behaviors, such as potty training, or can be used for kids who are just plain curious about how their body works. The first …
Sunday Spotlight on Children’s Books: Not Fair, Won’t Share by Sue Graves
Helping children navigate their early friendships is important…especially when it comes to sharing objects and personal space. The book, Not Fair, Won’t Share: A Book about Sharing is authored by Sue Graves. It is a fun one to use with children to see how their behavior impacts others. I like this book because it shows a …