In Saturday, Ava and her mom pause and take deep breaths when things don’t go as planned. Practicing with a stuffed animal gives your little one a concrete way to independently find calm, and move on from tough moments.
Caregiver Tip: Everyone feels frustration and disappointment at times, no matter their age. Model this technique to show how adults use these tools too. Need to reset on the go? Place your hand on your belly and watch it rise & fall.
SOCIAL EMOTIONAL
ANIMALS
Let's Play!
SET THE STAGE FOR PLAY: No Prep!
Adult Participation: Optional
Ready
A stuffed animal
Set
Find a quiet, comfy place with enough space to lie down.
That’s it! You’re all set.
Play!
Lie on your back and place the stuffed animal on your belly.
Take a big breath in and watch your animal go up.
Breathe out slowly and watch your animal go down.
Try 5 more “animal rides” and notice how your body feels and changes.
→ Do you feel calmer after each breath?
→ What do you notice when you close your eyes?
LET’S PRETEND & BREATHE
More breathing practices for your emotional toolbox.
"Not only do we get high-quality books with engaging perspectives from well-known authors, the activities included expand how we experience the story with our 3-year-old son. Accessible, fun and educational!"
Liz (parent)
*****
We can't wait to get the next delivery!
"The activity card suggestions were easy to put together and fun for the kids. They provided a nice supplement to the story, and extended the enjoyment of the books."
Eze (parent)
*****
associated activities are amazing!
"They not only help my grandson see the relationship between an exciting subject and the real-world principles involved, but they also strongly personalize the experience for him. He learns that reading is fun, and that learning satisfies his natural curiosity."
Stephen (grandparent)
*****
Looking forward to gifting these again!
"I have always gifted books at birthdays and these felt like a natural extension of the gifts I already give. It's nice to also be able to give my friends something that comes with additional activities they may not have thought to do."