Tag Archives: toddlers

Gentle, Gentle: A Story About Kind Hands and Big Feelings by Abby Tunny (Book Spotlight)

Gentle, Gentle is a heartwarming book that teaches toddlers how to express big emotions through kind hands and gentle choices.

Perfect for ages 1-4, this colorful and engaging story follows Trey, a spirited toddler who’s learning that pushing isn’t the answer. With the help of his mom, a kind teacher, and a classroom full of friends, Trey discovers better ways to communicate when frustration bubbles up. Through simple rhymes and vibrant illustrations, young readers explore emotional regulation, empathy, and using words instead of hands. This book is ideal for families, educators, therapists, and caregivers seeking to nurture positive behavior, reduce hitting and pushing, and help children learn to manage big feelings. This relatable story encourages self-expression, builds emotional intelligence, and affirms that every child can learn to be kind-even when things get tough.

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Read My Review on Reedsy Discovery!

 

 

 

Meet the Author

I am just a mom of two young children whose love of being a mom and passion for her children and family led to a creative spark to create a children’s book. My background includes psychology, social work, and now also includes self-publishing. I strive to live and teach the spirit of kindness.
 

 

 

 

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A Squirrely Christmas (Clover & Pumpkin) by Megan K Palmer (Book Review)

Get ready for a nutty adventure in the heart of the forest with A Squirrely Christmas – a funny and heartwarming Christmas picture book for kids!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the forest animals, especially baby bunny can’t wait for their annual Christmas Tree Decorating Extravaganza. This year, the squirrels-Clover and Pumpkin-are in charge of decking out the grand Christmas tree. But are these two fluffy friends up for the challenge?

Join a lovable cast of forest creatures in this playful Christmas book for children ages 2-7 that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and turning the chaos of the holidays into fun. Laugh along as Clover and Pumpkin learn the true meaning of the season-working together, slowing down, and sharing Christmas cheer!

With adorable illustrations and a playful speech bubble story, this Christmas book is perfect for holiday read-alouds with toddlers and preschoolers, teachers and librarians looking for festive Christmas books, or a great Christmas gift for readers who love forest animals and holiday humor.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Christmas is quickly approaching, and I found the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit: A Squirrely Christmas by Megan Palmer. Each year, a different forest animal is selected to decorate a tree for the holiday; this year, it’s the squirrel’s turn to take the reins. The decorating extravaganza did not go smoothly for Pumpkin and Clover, the very energetic squirrel buddies. They quickly learned the repercussions for rushing the decorating process.

Christmas lights are pretty to look at, but more often than not, they can become a tangled mess, which is what these two forest friends experienced. They should have adopted the “slow and steady wins the race” approach to Christmas tree decorating, rather than competing to see who can finish first and becoming entangled in the strings. In the end, the squirrels learn the importance of taking their time and working together as a team.

A Squirrely Christmas is a wonderful and amusing holiday story. Kids will laugh at the colorful drawings of the squirrels’ bungled attempt to string the lights and Pumpkin’s face when he was caught eating on the job. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing the squirrels completed tree and the lovely polaroids of decorated trees from past years. Encourage your family or students to vote for the one they think wins best in show. I’m casting my ballot for team reindeer! Also, everyone is sure to learn something new about squirrels and evergreens on their facts page; I certainly did, so don’t skip these informative pages! Share your newfound knowledge with friends, classmates, and family members!

With a recommended reading age of 2-7 years, A Squirrely Christmas is the perfect choice for young readers. Its fun-filled storyline, amusing illustrations, and educational facts make it a must-have for the holiday season. Share this delightful book with your family and make it a part of your holiday traditions!

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤1/2
(rounded to 5 on Amazon and Goodreads)

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Meet the Author

Megan K. Palmer is a creator, writer, book reviewer, and educator. She’s obsessed with tears, laughter, and the writing process. Perhaps it’s because they go together at times. She graduated from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with an Ed.M. education at Brigham Young University.

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Momo Has a Bad Day by Papa Paws (Book Review)

Everyone has bad days – even little puppies! When Momo can’t find a playmate and gets caught in the rain, her spirits are as damp as her fur. But big sister Molly Paws knows just what to do to help turn those storm clouds into sunshine.

This tender tale shows young readers that it’s okay to feel down sometimes, and that family is there to help make things better. Through gentle storytelling and heartwarming illustrations, children will learn that even the gloomiest days can brighten up with a little love and care from those who matter most.

Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers ages 0-5, this comforting story helps little ones understand their emotions and discover that bad days don’t last forever – especially with family by your side.

Each book in The Everyday Adventures of Papa & Paws® series features:

  • Charming illustrations that capture every emotional moment
  • Age-appropriate storytelling perfect for ages 0-5
  • Real-life situations that children instantly relate to
  • Gentle life lessons woven naturally into each tale
  • True stories that make the messages even more meaningful
  • Opportunities for family bonding and discussion

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Have you ever woken up with bad luck appearing to follow you with each step? Has your mood ever soured over unfavorable events or circumstances? This is the case for Momo. The day began with Momo, the cute brown and tan dog, heading outside to play with Robbie the Cardinal, only to find the redbird flying off, too preoccupied to play today. Next, Momo visited Timmy the Squirrel and discovered a sign saying their pal was off looking for nuts. Momo’s bad luck would continue to plague them as rain drenched them from head to paw. The illustration of Momo standing outside the window, watching their sisters sleep soundly in their warm dog’s bed, was so sad. Your heart goes out to the poor, sopping-wet, lonely pup. However, it’s hard to stay sad long when you see both sister pups tucked in with a blanket and stuffed toy. Very cute illustrative pages!

Momo did not stay sad for long, thanks to Molly Paws and their humans. Molly Paws suggested tips and activities to make Momo feel better on bad days. These suggestions are not limited to canines either. They are universal and can be applied by anyone, regardless of age or species. When feeling down, I recommend selecting one or more tips courtesy of Molly Paws. Eat your favorite. Soak in a bubble bath (be cautious of UTIs and delicate skin). Focus on happy thoughts and activities. Snuggle up and take a nap. Play with family or friends. Take deep, calming breaths and let the bad day vibes float away. 

Teachers, ask your students to share ideas or tips on making bad moods vanish. Your class can make a colorful chart like Molly Paws. Parents, read this story with your child(ren) and show them that everyone has bad days, and that’s okay. Encourage them to utilize Molly Paws coping mechanisms or make their own “how to feel better on a bad day” poster board. 

I recommend sharing Momo Has a Bad Day with children up to age 5. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: 

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Meet the Author

Nicholas J. Nawroth is Papa Paws. He is a dog lover and artist. At age 9, he created his first comic book featuring his dog, Woody, and has been drawing ever since. He has never lost touch with his childlike wonder and love of dogs, which he shares in his stories. In his free time, he enjoys snuggling up on the couch with the family to watch movies.

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Gator Gray Gets Away by Heidi Brooks (Book Review)

Join Gator Gray on a whimsical adventure in
Gator Gray Gets Away!

 

This delightful tale follows the mischievous Gator Gray, who loves to crawl and explore, much to the amusement (and occasional exasperation) of his family. With a knack for getting into all sorts of playful trouble—from sneaking under beds to nibbling on bugs—Gray’s antics keep everyone on their toes!

As his family searches for solutions, Gator Gray’s journey takes a surprising turn. Will he ever trade in his crawling for walking? With heartwarming moments and plenty of giggles, this charming story captures the essence of childhood curiosity and the joy of growing up.

Perfect for children aged 3 to 9, Gator Gray Gets Away celebrates the playful spirit of little ones while reminding readers that every step of growth is worth cheering for. With whimsical rhymes and engaging illustrations, this book is sure to become a bedtime favorite for families everywhere!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

In the first several months, parents and babies will share many firsts: first smile, first laugh, the first time they roll over, plus many more. Around the 5th month mark, some babies start rocking, and soon after, they begin exploring their environment on all fours. They go from moving at a snail’s pace to zooming around the house, touching everything at eye level, and putting anything in their path into their mouth. They are constantly on the go, and parents reach a new level of tiredness. 

Gator Gray, a lively baby, was always on the move. He could be found under the table, under the bed, or in one location and then mysteriously gone the next. The dad’s exasperated call to his other two sons, “Go and find some glue,” had me chuckling. The text and accompanying illustrations of Gator Gray with his finger up his nose and his toes in his mouth were equally amusing. Parents, if you thought only your child behaved this way, rest assured you are not alone. Gator Gray’s adventures are a mirror image of every energetic child!

When the day came when Gator Gray pushed himself upright, I knew the parents’ days of rest were not quite upon them. Yes, it’s a monumental day when our child takes their first step. However, a child on their feet is quicker and more apt to get into mischief, which spells the end of relaxing while the child is awake. Like the parents in this humous children’s book, we quickly learn the importance of baby-proofing every door cause if a child reaches a doorknob, they will escape. 

I adored reading Gator Gray Gets Away. It read like any day from my children’s first couple of years. I highly recommend sharing this with your children, especially if a new baby is coming. There were a few grammar errors, but the laughs this adorable picture book brought me far outweighed any shortcomings. It’s a must-read for parents! 

Sit back, relax, and read Gator Gray Gets Away. Read fast, though, because if your youngster is like Gator Gary, they won’t sit still long! 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤1/2
(rounded to five on Amazon and Goodreads)

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Heidi Brooks is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose delightful experiences with her grandchildren fuel her passion for writing. With a lifelong love for children’s literature, Heidi is particularly inspired by the whimsical worlds of Shel Silverstein, Dr. Seuss, and Roald Dahl.

Her keen sense of humor allows her to find joy in the everyday antics of her grandchildren, often turning their adventures into tales featuring brave heroes and heroines.

When she’s not writing, Heidi cherishes spending quality time with her family, embarking on countless adventures that spark laughter and inspire her next story. Through her writing, she hopes to capture the magic of childhood and share it with young readers everywhere.

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Jack’s Noisy Day: A Raucous Romp Through The Alphabet by Sarah Tinney (Book Review)

Jack’s Noisy Day is an engaging and interactive children’s book that takes readers on a lively journey through the alphabet. Follow Jack as he embarks on a noisy adventure, making uproarious sounds for every letter from A to Z. From “Ahem!” to “Zap,” each page is filled with fun and excitement, captivating young readers and encouraging interactive learning.

Key Features:

  • Vibrant illustrations that bring the alphabet to life
  • Engaging storyline that encourages active participation
  • Interactive sound effects for each letter of the alphabet
  • Perfect for children ages 0-7 years old
  • Ideal for story time sessions, classrooms, and bedtime reads

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Jack is like many other kids—he loves to make noise! Awake or asleep, this little boy makes sure you know where he is and what he is doing at all times. The author has readers follow Jack on his noisy adventure, learning their ABCs along the way. For starters, if he doesn’t have your attention, he is quick with the “Ahem,” which has the “A” standing out in bright red shading.

Each page centers on ONE noisy moment. Kids will laugh at the child frightening someone, causing them to say, “Eek!” Kids can be quite the pranksters! Readers and young listeners will find the “Fart” and the white gas cloud quite humorous! Superhero fans will adore Jack’s super costume choice.

Jack found joy in pretending to be animals and various human characters. He was so cute trying to be ferocious in his lion costume. I loved his purple beret on the artist’s page; however, “Ooh aah!” didn’t fit the scenario as well as the other pages, such as “Pew pew” in the outer space scene. 

The author beautifully points out how exciting and tiring a day can be for a child. If your child is anything like Jack, you’ll be smiling and nodding in agreement that even in sleep, they like to be noisy: “Zzzzz!”

Jack’s Noisy Day uses familiar words and actions to teach children the alphabet. I agree with Amazon’s recommended reading age, baby to 7 years. Babies will love all the wonderful colors. Toddlers can increase their vocabulary by saying what they see happening or naming objects on a page. Preschoolers can use this book to learn their letters. This would make a great first-level reading book for independent readers (kindergarteners and first graders). 

With something for multiple ages, this is a book your child will love for many years.

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

I am a pharmacist working in rural Australia. I love music, crochet, nature, cats and being creative. I recently gave birth to my son Jack and was inspired to create a story sharing his playfulness and cheekiness with the world.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

 

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