Feelings &#8211; Bedtime Stories

LET’S DISCUSS THE STORIES ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Friendship, Feelings, Feeling Scared

1. In this story, Bonke helps his friend Peo to feel brave. What are some other feelings that friends can make us feel?

2. Do you think the meerkat is a new friend for Bonke and Peo? Why or why not?

3. How do you think that Bonke, Peo and the meerkat could play together?

Bedtime Story written by Tumisang Shongwe

Illustrated by Isabella Kuijers

Designed by Monique Cleghorn

Edited by Kelly Norwood-Young

Music Video by “Clear Air” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

* THE STORY ‘MEERKAT MAGIC’ WAS CREATED BY BOOK DASH AND IS LICENSED UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS ATTRIBUTION 4.0 LICENSE. MINOR FORMATTING CHANGES MAY HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ORIGINAL WORK FOR EASE OF READING ON OUR WEBSITE.

The post Meerkat Magic first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

The Friendly Ghost

Storyberries — Sun, 29 Oct 2023 22:00:22 +0000

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LET’S DISCUSS THE STORIES ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Feelings, Friendship, Courage

1. In this story, Wee Ghost is frightened to make friends, in case people don’t like him. Did this end up being correct? What do you think this might say about the way we sometimes feel before we make new friends?

2. What did Wee Ghost do to make friends?

3. Do you think this needed him to be brave? Why or why not?

Bedtime Story written by Prarthana Gururaj

Illustrated by Tanja Tomusilovic

Music Video by “Moonlight Hall” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Lift Motif” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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A Skinny Pumpkin

Andrea Kaczmarek — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 22:00:55 +0000

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Review on Amazon

LET’S DISCUSS THE STORIES ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Feelings

1. In this story, Izzy does not try to change the skinny pumpkin from being sad. What do you think this might say about our feelings? And what might it say about friendship?

Self Esteem

2. Izzy and her pumpkin don’t mind if they look like what people think a Halloween pumpkin, or a Halloween costume, should look like. Do you think what other people think about you should matter? Why or why not?

Bedtime Story written by Andrea Kaczmarek

Illustrated by Tamara Nguyen

Music Video by “Balloon Game” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Airship Serenity” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Graveyard Shift” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Voxel Revolution” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Jerry Five” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The post A Skinny Pumpkin first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Scowly Puss and the Very Rainy Day

Jade Maitre — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:46:21 +0000

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© Storyberries 2022

LET’S CHAT ABOUT THE STORY ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Motivation, Conscientiousness

1. In this story, Antony the Ant teaches Scowly Puss that keeping busy can sometimes help us to not feel so bored. Why do you think this might be?

2. Scowly Puss takes great pride in making the perfect furniture for Queen Antonette. Do you think it is good that he took the time to do this job well? Why or why not?

Feelings, Sadness, Boredom

1. Why do you think Scowly Puss feels sad when he feels bored? Do you think the two feelings always come together? Why or why not?

Bedtime Story for Kids written by Jade Maitre

Illustrated by Dia Lee

Book design by Jade Maitre

Other Credits – Music video by March of the Spoons Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Zazie Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Marty Gots a Plan Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Two Finger Johnny Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

The post Scowly Puss and the Very Rainy Day first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Top 10 Books about Divorce and Separation

Storyberries Book Reviews — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 08:37:00 +0000

Helping kids through difficult family times

Families that choose to separate for whatever reason can experience a variety of difficult emotions. But there is room for understanding, kindness, and reassurance. Here are 10 of our picks for shepherding kids through a time that might be hard on families, but also a way to prove their love for one another.

“Two Homes Filled with Love” by Steve Herman
“Drew and his dragon Diggory Doo, step in to help a friend who is struggling with living in two homes with separated parents. This is a compassionate and gentle guide to helping a kid overcome an intimidating, but not insurmountable, challenge.”
Storyberries

“I Don’t Want to Talk About It” by Jeanie Franz Ransom and Kathryn Kunz Finney
“News of a divorce is a big deal for a kid; it might make them want to roar like a lion, or hide like a fish in the sea, or fly away like a bird. But with thoughtfulness and honesty from their parents, they can come to understand that after the event happens, the love their parents have for them will never change.”
Storyberries

“Teacup” by Rebecca Young and Matt Ottley
“A boy sets out for a new home, carrying a teacup full of earth from his old one. This beautiful picture book evokes all the turbulence, anxiety, and transformative power of any big life change, and shows kids there’s a way to meet those changes head-on.” Storyberries

“Mum and Dad Glue” by Kes Gray and Lee Wildish
“The hero of this story is looking for a pot of ‘parent glue’ to stick his mum and dad back together after they come apart. This book, with a sympathetic and relatable metaphor, provides a great example of the growing a family can do together even when relationships get broken.”
Storyberries

“Hello Jimmy!” by Anna Walker
“When a parrot named Jimmy shows up on the doorstep, Jack’s dad can’t get enough of him. Jack, though, isn’t quite so pleased. This charmingly illustrated book shows the strength and importance of the relationship between a boy and his father.”
Storyberries

“Here and There” by Tamara Ellis Smith and Evelyn Daviddi
“Children ages 3-8 and their parents will particularly love this story of young Ivan, who finds refuge from the chaos of his parents’ separation in the majesty of nature. A richly colored meditation on the people, and things, that are always there for us.”
Storyberries

“When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos and Marta Fabrega
“This book tells the comforting story of parents who continue to love their child even after they stop getting along with each other. Children will enjoy listening and looking at the pictures while their parents read aloud.”
Storyberries

“Standing on My Own Two Feet” by Tamara Schmitz
Having two homes can be just like having two feet—making you stronger. That’s what Addison learns when his parents split up. Kids and parents will be charmed and uplifted by this story of a loving family who simply look a little different than they used to.
Storyberries

“Fred Stays With Me!” by Nancy Coffelt and Tricia Tusa
“When parents split and move into separate spaces, where does the dog go? The child in this book is determined to stay close to her dog no matter what. With a childlike voice and touching illustrations, this book addresses the less-often-discussed issue of how family separations affect the animals in their lives.”
Storyberries

“Two Homes” by Claire Masurel and Steve Herman
“Life is different at Mom’s house than at Dad’s house. The changes from one to the other can be confusing. Luckily, one thing never changes, and that is the love that both Mom and Dad have for their kid. The bright colors and comforting words of this book will reassure kids that a divorce need not be as scary as it sounds.”
Storyberries

Free Online Books From Storyberries About Divorce & Separation

The Letter
In this thoughtful and beautifully illustrated story, Julia decides to write her parents a letter, to tell them how angry and distressed she feels when they keep arguing.

All Aboard
When parents divorce or separate, children often have to deal with moving house and school. Although this book is not about family breakup, it may be reassuring for kids who are changing school.

The Book On The Top Shelf
Galen and his dad both miss Galen’s mum. A beautiful book for helping children to express the sadness, and other emotions they feel when they miss someone they love.

The post Top 10 Books about Divorce and Separation first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Top 10 Books for When You’re Feeling Angry

Storyberries Book Reviews — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 08:32:00 +0000

Helping kids transform their anger into positive energy

Anger is often an unpleasant emotion, and it can be destructive—but it doesn’t have to be. How do we learn to harness our anger to build the world up instead of tearing it down? Here are ten of our picks for helping kids discover the positive power of anger. And, let’s be honest, the adults could use a refresher too.

‘The Angry Dragon‘ by Michael Gordon
“Why are dragons so angry? It turns out they might just be a little misunderstood. Kids will learn from this book that being angry doesn’t make you a bad person and that they can use it to help them get through disappointment and other difficult emotions.” Storyberries

Angry Octopus by Lori Lite and Max Stasuyk
“Directed at kids ages 5-11, this book uses concepts of belly-breathing and self-calming techniques to provide a host of helpful tips for taking control of emotions before they take control of you. With tools for the mind and body, it will become a cherished part of any feelings-book library.” Storyberries

Tiger Has a Tantrum by Sue Graves and Trevor Denton
“Tiger is in a terrible mood and it isn’t good news for any of his friends. With the help of a kind guiding influence, though, he might just learn to get his anger on a leash. A vividly rendered story, perfect for kids with a quick temper.” Storyberries

Pause Power by Jennifer Law and Brian Martin
“Never underestimate the power of the pause! This fun and vibrant book teaches children about the “reset button” that can help them reframe the way they look at frustrating situations. Before they know it, they’ll be able to take the buttons that sometimes get pushed, and turn them into ways to reset and regroup, instead of react.” Storyberries

Angry Cookie by Laura Dockrill and Maria Karipidou
“Can you help the angry little chocolate-chip cookie get back to smiling after a day that would test any pastry’s patience? With adorable illustrations and relatable situations, the author teaches kids that anyone can get angry—and learn how to overcome anger.” Storyberries

The Angry Little Puffin by Timothy Young
“Wouldn’t you be pretty peeved if you kept getting mistaken for a penguin when you were in fact a puffin? This is the story of a fed-up puffin who finds that even the kindness and understanding of one person can change his world around. A charming reminder to children and adults of the immense power of a single act of generosity—even simply listening!” Storyberries

The Angry Elephant by Hannah Kelly
“How do we deal with an angry elephant? Sometimes our anger can feel as big as an elephant. But we can tame it, and Hannah Kelly’s patient, lovingly drawn book is here to walk us through the process.” Storyberries

My Body Sends a Signal by Natalia Maguire and Anastasia Zababashkina
“Our bodies alert us to all sorts of emotions—but how do we translate those signals into action? And how do we choose the actions that will be best for us? With vibrant illustrations, plus accompanying activities like feeling cards and coloring pages, this book will help kids and adults get in touch with their emotional sides.” Storyberries

When I’m Feeling Angry by Tracey Moroney
“This comfortingly illustrated book guides kids through a series of actions for calming themselves down when anger seems about to overtake everything else. But really, it’s a fundamentally useful reminder for anyone who picks it up.” Storyberries

Anh’s Anger by Gail Silver and Christiane Kromer
“What to do if the idea of going to sit at the dinner table makes you furious? It might be worth a try to go to your room and sit with that anger. This lovingly rendered story creates a blueprint for acknowledging, experiencing, and moving past feelings that might at first seem uncontrollable.” Storyberries

Storyberries Books On Anger

Angry Little Dinosaur
Fred the dinosaur feels very frustrated. He can’t manage to tie his shoelaces. Fred becomes more frustrated and angry until it seems like everything is wrong . His Mum teaches him how to slow down, relax his body and breathe more calmly. Once Fred feels calm again, he enjoys himself once more!

Nin Wants to Get Dressed
It is Nin’s first day at school. She feels sad – she wants someone to help her put her new uniform on, but everyone is too busy. Nin patiently tries to put it on herself but it’s hard and she gets in a pickle! Her family appreciate her efforts and come to her aid. A delightful book for showing an alternative to getting angry when we feel frustrated.

No!
One day, Nosisi is in a NO mood. She wants to say “no” to everyone – that is, until she is offered an ice cream…Nosisi then decides that perhaps saying “yes” can be fun too!

The post Top 10 Books for When You’re Feeling Angry first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Who Stole Bhaiya’s Smile?

Storyweaver — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 22:00:05 +0000

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Let’s Chat About The Stories ~ Ideas for Talking With Kids

Conversation, Friendship, Feelings

1. Have you ever felt a little like Bhaiya in this story? How did it feel when you felt like this?

2. If you were Bhaiya, what kinds of things do you think you might have done to get rid of Dukduk?

3. If you were Bhaiya’s friend, what kinds of things do you think you might have done to support him?

Bedtime story written by Sanjana Kapur

Bedtime story illustrated by Sunaina Coelho

Music Video by “Heartwarming” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Gone Beyond” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Fairytale Waltz” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Midday Dance” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

OTHER CREDITS:

Who Stole Bhaiya’s Smile? (English), written by Sanjana Kapur, illustrated by Sunaina Coelho , published by Pratham Books (© Pratham Books,2019) under a CC BY 4.0 license, first released on StoryWeaver. Read, create and translate stories for free on www.storyweaver.org.in

* THE STORY ‘WHO STOLE BHAIYA’S SMILE?’ WAS CREATED BY PRATHAM BOOKS AND IS LICENSED UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS -BY-4.0 LICENSE. FORMATTING CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ORIGINAL WORK FOR EASE OF READING ON OUR WEBSITE.

The post Who Stole Bhaiya’s Smile? first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

How To Talk With Kids About Feelings

Storyberries Bloggers — Sun, 31 Oct 2021 05:30:13 +0000

How can I have positive conversations with my child?

One key thing we can do is to talk about emotions. As adults we can often find it hard to manage our own emotions, and this, too, can make it even harder to model or guide those of our children. It may not feel easy, but with help we can all get better at it, so in this article we provide some simple ideas for speaking about everyday feelings.

First, What Exactly Are Emotions?

Emotions are specific states of feeling: for example, joy, anger, fear, or frustration. Emotions are created when elements external to us interact with what’s inside us. Emotions accompany us with every step we take, and identifying what we feel allows us to know ourselves better. When we know what we are feeling, our way of acting makes more sense and we can better modulate our expressions of emotion.

Why do kids need to understand emotions?

Children need to understand their emotions in order to be able to express how they feel. Emotional intelligence is a really vital component of healthy development. Having a balanced mind helps with empathy and assertiveness, both essential to all areas of life.

Tips to help kids express their feelings

Being a positive role model
Children need to see how it’s done, with you as an example. It is important that you express your feelings in words as well as actions, so that your children learn to do the same. For example, if you are excited about your job, tell your children how happy you are and how excited you feel. Or, you can use words in a calm way to express your feelings if you are upset or disappointed about something. This will help your children to understand that feelings are normal for everyone, and that expressing them is a good way to feel better.

Recognising feelings
Help your children put words to their feelings in order to recognise them. For example, if your son is angry because you have told him to turn the television off and go to sleep, you can say: ‘I understand you are angry at the moment because you were enjoying the show and you wanted to keep watching it.’ The more we provide the correct term for the emotions they are feeling, the more they will be able to express their emotions verbally, instead of acting them out (for example as tantrums).

Setting aside time to talk
Create moments for dialogue. Use open-ended questions that lead to chatting. For example you might say ‘What have you done at school today?’ or ‘Which was the best bit of your day?’

Listening and respecting
Listen to your children with respect. Often children do not want advice, just to feel listened to and understood. You might say, ‘How hard it must have been for you to bear these insults without knowing how to respond!’ instead of “You shouldn’t have answered back!”. Your child may already have strong feelings about it, and sometimes may simply seek understanding.

Children love games and movies!
Open conversations by taking advantage of resources such as games and movies. When watching movies, point out the feelings of the characters. Imagine that you are watching Wreck it Ralph together. You can ask: ‘What happened to Ralph? Why is he angry?’ ‘Look! Vanellope is happy because she finally has a car.’ By the way, Inside Out is an excellent movie that explores the theme of emotions in a really sweet, positive way.

Giving kids space to express themselves
Make it clear that it is good to feel emotions. It is logical that children might feel angry some days. What is key, is how they manage that anger. Give them a space to let off steam and allow them to express their opinions, even if you disagree with them.

Some Free Books About Feelings at Storyberries

The Angry Little Dinosaur
Fred is a little dinosaur who feels angry when he can’t find his shoes! His parents help him to feel much better.

The Shell Shocked Turtle
Owen is a turtle who is frightened of everything – until with the help of his sister he learns to conquer his fears.

All Aboard
Nina feels worried about moving to a new city. Playing a game with her parents helps her feel much better.

Article by Luzmery M. Romero Gamboa and Fleur Rodgers

Luzmery works in the area of clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents and families. Since 2016, she has run a Psychological Center in Venezuela called Psicoluz. She offers workshop facilitations to parents, is involved in recreational activities for children, and has been working as a freelancer since 2017 performing online psychotherapy.

Fleur is a meditation teacher in France and uses a compassion and loving-kindness based approach to meditation and slow-minded living. Fleur posts regularly to Instagram @rodgers.fleur She has two children, is a qualified teacher in adult education and is the founder of Timeouttobreathe.com

The post How To Talk With Kids About Feelings first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Angry Little Dinosaur

Jade Maitre — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 23:00:06 +0000

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