 There was a time when blogging felt like a natural extension of my day. I would sit down, reflect, write a few thoughts, add an illustration, and send it out into the world. It wasn’t about algorithms or optimization or “funnels.” It was simply about sharing something meaningful and hoping it might land in the right hands. Somewhere along the way, I drifted from it. Not because I stopped having things to say — goodness knows I still have plenty of thoughts — but because the world became louder, faster, and more complicated. Social media began to favor speed over substance. Short posts replaced longer reflections. And like many people, I wondered whether thoughtful writing still had a place. I’ve decided that it does. So, I’m back to blogging. Not to chase trends or numbers, but to reconnect — with parents, grandparents, caregivers, and anyone who believes that kindness, creativity, and happiness still matter in the lives of children. Why Blogging Still Feels Right to Me At 85 years old, I’ve learned a few things. One of them is that depth has a way of lasting. A blog allows me to slow down. To explain why I write the books I write. To share what I’ve learned from creating more than 100 children’s books, thousands of illustrated musings, and a lifetime of art centered around joy. A blog doesn’t rush me. It doesn’t demand clever tricks. It simply asks me to be honest. And honesty, I’ve found, travels farther than noise.
Writing for Parents, Not Gatekeepers Over the years, people have often asked whether my books are used in schools, approved by educational boards, or part of formal reading programs. While those paths can be wonderful, I’ve come to realize something important: The most powerful reading moments don’t happen in institutions. They happen at home. They happen on couches, at bedtime, in kitchens, and on grandparents’ laps. Parents and grandparents are the ones who choose the books that shape early memories. They are the ones who read aloud, answer questions, and model curiosity and compassion. That’s who I write for. My stories are not designed to teach children how to pass a test. They are meant to help children feel safe, seen, and hopeful — and to give grown-ups something meaningful to share with them. Why I Write Children’s Books About Happiness People sometimes smile when they hear that many of my books revolve around happiness. As if happiness were a small or simple thing. In my experience, happiness is neither small nor simple. It’s a skill. It’s a practice. And it’s something children learn best when it’s modeled gently, not preached loudly. Stories are how we do that. A story can show cooperation instead of competition. It can celebrate kindness without sermonizing. It can remind children — and adults — that contentment often comes from simplicity, gratitude, and connection. Those ideas have guided my work for decades, from Happy Musings to books like Let’s Everybody Fish and now my newest project, The Very Happy Farmer.  A New Book, and a New Way of Sharing the Journey As I work on The Very Happy Farmer, I’ve begun preparing short videos showing how a book comes to life — from the first lines of text to the early illustrations. I am surprised (and delighted) by how many people enjoy seeing the process. It turns out that watching something grow slowly still resonates. That’s another reason blogging feels like the right companion to these videos. A blog gives me space to reflect on the why behind the work — not just the what. In the coming weeks, I’ll be writing more about:
 What You’ll Find Here Going Forward If you’re new here, welcome. If you’ve been with me for years, thank you for staying. This blog will be a place for:
 A Final Thought
I’ve spent my life believing that light deserves to be shared. That art should lift rather than impress. And that children deserve stories that honor their hearts. Blogging allows me to continue that work in a quiet, thoughtful way. So yes — I’m back to blogging. And I’m very glad you’re here. With gratitude, Sally Huss The Happy Artist https://www.sallyhuss.com
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 When Cooperation Creates Something Bigger Than Any One of Us Sometimes the simplest stories carry the biggest truths. Let's Everybody Fish! is a playful poem, but beneath the rhymes and repetition is a powerful message about cooperation, shared effort, and collective success — lessons that feel especially important in today’s world.  By the edge of the ocean, a group of eager fishing folks gathers with a shared goal: to fill a vat with fresh fish so they can enjoy a meal together. What sounds simple quickly becomes complicated. Who will fish for how many? Who will do more? Who will do less? Who will give some back? Each person wants to help — but everyone is focused on their own number rather than the common purpose. And so the discussion goes on.  When Individual Effort Isn’t Enough As the poem unfolds, the fishermen debate numbers instead of needs. Three fish. Five fish. Eight fish. Ten fish. Plenty of effort. Plenty of talk. Plenty of good intentions. Yet something is missing. It’s only when they finally agree — when they stop measuring contribution and start sharing responsibility — that something remarkable happens. They don’t catch many little fish. They catch one great big fish. The Quiet Lesson Beneath the Laughter This story gently reminds us of a truth we often forget: When we stop competing and start cooperating, the results can exceed anything we imagined. It’s a lesson that applies everywhere:
It means trusting the process, respecting each role, and keeping the shared goal in sight.  Why This Story Sill Matters Children instinctively understand this message — but adults need it too In a time when division feels louder than unity, this little fishing story quietly points us back to something simple and true.
 Let's Everybody Fish! This poem is part of a larger idea — one that runs through my book. The book explores cooperation, kindness, and shared responsibility through playful language and joyful storytelling. It’s written for children, but its heart belongs to readers of every age. Because whether we’re fishing for ideas, solutions, or a better way forward… Anything can be accomplished when we work together as one. Let's Everybody Fish! by Sally Huss, The Happy Artist  Every once in a while a sentence, a paragraph, or even a single idea takes root in your heart and refuses to leave. It lingers quietly, then rises again and again until you finally understand that it’s asking something of you. That’s what happened when I first read this passage by Omraam Mikhaël Aïvanhov: “… equality is only possible thanks to fraternity, for humans are not equal anywhere except in dignity. This dignity comes from the fact that they are all sons and daughters of God and therefore all brothers and sisters…” This small paragraph followed me for months. Maybe even years. It resurfaced during moments of reflection and tucked itself into the back of my mind when I was working on other projects. I even lost track of it for a time and had to ask one of the sisters to help me find it again. When she did, she also sent another complementary teaching: “In fact, nature does not like equality and uniformity or a general leveling out… the truth is that equality does not exist in the universe: inequality is the general rule.” Coming from a teacher who constantly encouraged us to learn from Nature, this clarification made absolute sense. Nature has never been in the business of making everything equal — leaves differ, waves differ, people differ. And yet, beneath all this beautiful diversity, there is one unshakable place where equality does exist. In our dignity. In our divine origin. A Truth Worth Passing On As an author and illustrator of children’s books, I am always listening for ideas worth passing along — ideas that children can carry with them for life. When Aïvanhov said this was “of the utmost importance to teach children,” I felt that responsibility deeply. But how? How do you explain such a delicate, nuanced truth to young minds? How do you express that we are not equal in looks, abilities, talents, or circumstances — and yet, we share the greatest equality of all?  I let the idea sit with me. I didn’t force the answer. I simply held the teaching like a seed and waited. Eventually, the way revealed itself, and from that seed grew my children’s book: THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO KNOW The story begins on an ordinary school day. A teacher stands in front of her class and announces boldly: “Isn’t it wonderful that you are all so perfectly equal?” Well — as you can imagine — the children were stunned. Because they knew what they saw with their eyes: They weren’t equal at all! Some were taller. Some were cleverer. Some were poorer or richer. Some were more athletic, more artistic, more something or less something. The book follows their earnest objections — and then the teacher’s gentle clarification: “You are all equal in only one way, And in that way you always will be. You are each sons and daughters of your heavenly father… Regardless of the many differences you are seeing.” This is where the heart of the teaching shines through. Not equality of appearance.  Not equality of ability. Not equality of achievement. But equality of dignity — the dignity that comes from being a child of God. And with that understanding, the children in the story begin to see one another differently. As brothers and sisters. As fellow beings of divine worth. Their hearts soften. Their spines straighten. Something inside them lifts. And isn’t that exactly the response we hope for?  Why This Lesson Matters Today We live in a world that talks a great deal about equality, often in ways that can be confusing to children. They are constantly comparing themselves to others — at school, on social media, even within their own families. They notice differences before they have the tools to interpret them. If we don’t teach them where true equality lies, they may assume that differences diminish them. But they don’t. Differences make life beautiful and interesting, but dignity makes life sacred. Children need to know this. They need to understand that their worth does not depend on talent, beauty, money, or ability. They are worthy because they come from something divine. They are equal because of their source. They are sisters and brothers because they share that origin. This is a truth that steadies a child from the inside out. Nature Agrees If you walk into a forest, you will find towering trees and tiny saplings, flowers that bloom quickly and others that take years, streams that roar and ponds that rest quietly. Nothing is equal in form or function — and yet everything belongs. Aïvanhov often pointed to Nature as our greatest teacher. And Nature tells us: Unity does not require sameness. Value does not require comparison. Equality does not require uniformity. Children understand this intuitively when it is presented simply and beautifully. That is what I tried to do in THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO KNOW — bring a universal, spiritual truth into a form a child can hold in their hands and take into their hearts.  A Message for Parents, Teachers, and All of Us Imagine how different our world could be if children grew up knowing: My worth is unshakable. Your worth is unshakable. We are different — and that’s fine. We are equal — because we are children of God. This understanding softens envy, quiets comparison, and strengthens compassion. It helps children appreciate others without diminishing themselves. It sets a foundation for moral, emotional, and spiritual strength. When I finished writing the book, I felt like one of the kids in the story. I stood a little taller. I felt a little kinder. I got it. And I hope the children who read it — and the adults who read it with them — feel that too. If you’d like to share this message of divine dignity and true equality with a child in your life, you can find THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO KNOW among my collection of uplifting, heart-centered children’s books. It was written with great love and with the hope that it will help young readers see themselves — and each other — through a gentler, truer lens.
 Raising Self-Confident Kids in a Pressured World Childhood isn’t as simple as it used to be. Today’s children grow up surrounded by expectations—academic pressure, social comparison, sports performance, and the fast-moving world of digital media. It’s no surprise that parents and teachers often wonder, “How do I help my child feel confident in who they are?” The good news is that confidence isn’t something a child has or doesn't have. It’s something that can be taught, nurtured, and strengthened every single day. Like a muscle, the more it’s exercised, the stronger it becomes. And the tools we often overlook—simple routines, honest conversations, and meaningful stories—are some of the most powerful confidence builders of all.  Confidence Begins with “I Can” Moments Kids do not build confidence by being told how great they are. They build it by doing things—even small things—and recognizing their own capabilities. Here are a few everyday “I can” moments that strengthen self-belief: 1. Taking Responsibility Making their bed… feeding the dog… carrying in groceries… setting the table. When children contribute, they see themselves as capable members of the family or classroom. 2. Solving Little Problems Tying shoes, zipping jackets, figuring out what to do next—these tiny successes add up to big self-esteem. 3. Tackling New Experiences Trying a new sport, speaking to a new friend, or learning a difficult skill shows kids that bravery is simply trying, not succeeding. 4. Helping Others Acts of kindness—helping a sibling, assisting a classmate, or supporting a parent—teach kids that their actions have value. These everyday opportunities are the building blocks of confidence. Why Confidence Matters More Than Ever Self-confidence affects everything:
That belief is the spark that ignites resilience, curiosity, courage, kindness, and joy. Today, the world needs children who trust themselves. And children need the adults around them to show them how.  The Power of Modeling Positive Self-Talk Children listen closely, especially to the things we say about ourselves. If they hear adults saying, “I can’t do this,” “I’m terrible at that,” or “I’m not good enough,” they internalize those messages too. But when adults model positive self-talk--
Encouraging children to speak kindly to themselves is one of the greatest gifts we can give.  How Stories Become Secret Teachers of Confidence Children absorb lessons through stories far more deeply than through lectures. When a book shows a character trying, failing, helping, creating, or discovering their own strength, a child naturally sees those possibilities for themselves. Stories are safe places to explore confidence. They allow children to:
 Introducing Self-Confident Sandy Few books embody this message more beautifully than Self-Confident Sandy. Sandy’s motto is simple, strong, and deeply empowering: “Some may wonder why I can do anything I try, And the only answer can be: all these things are inside me.” In this delightful rhyming story, Sandy wraps her arms around herself—not as a sign of selfishness, but as a gesture of recognition. She acknowledges her own strengths, her own possibilities, and her own inner worth. Throughout the book, Sandy shows children dozens of ways to build confidence:
The book closes with one of the most powerful messages a child could hear: “Once I set my heart and mind to it, I find that there is nothing to it, but to do it… That’s how I can be the Best Ever Me. You can do it too. You can be the Best Ever You!” What a remarkable invitation for children.  Using Sandy’s Message at Home and in the Classroom You can bring Sandy’s confidence motto into daily life with these simple ideas: “Inside Me” Mirror Mantra Have children look in the mirror each morning and repeat Sandy’s line: “All these things are inside me.” Sandy’s “I Tried Something New Today” Chart Each day, kids record one new action, effort, or challenge they attempted—big or small. Sandy’s Helping Hands Challenge Children choose one person to help each day, without being asked. Confidence Through Creativity Just like Sandy frames her artwork, children can create something they’re proud of and display it at home or school. These small rituals build habits of courage and positive self-regard. Why Parents and Teachers Love This Theme Parents appreciate Self-Confident Sandy because it reminds children that their talents aren’t measured by trophies or grades—they’re shaped by effort, attitude, and willingness to learn. Teachers love using Sandy as part of SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) because the entire book is a confidence-building toolkit disguised as joyful, playful rhymes. And children love Sandy because she feels like a real friend—someone cheerful, uplifting, and ready to try anything.  A World that Needs Confident Kids
The world will always offer distractions, comparisons, and pressures. But it will also always offer opportunities—especially for children who believe in themselves. When we teach kids the truth that Sandy knows-- that the tools they need already live inside them-- we give them a lifelong foundation of resilience, optimism, and joy. And that, truly, is how a child becomes their Best Ever Self. Self-Confident Sandy can be found on my website, along with the rest of the Sally Huss collection of children's books.  The Morning Struggle Every Parent Knows The cereal bowl sits untouched. A backpack lies open on the floor. One shoe is on. The other is… where? Your cheerful reminder—“Sweetie, brush your teeth!”—is met with a groan that could rival a foghorn. Most parents know this scene by heart. And many quietly ask themselves… “How do I help my child build good habits without becoming a broken record?” Healthy habits matter—brushing teeth, playing outside, eating something green once in a while, appreciating what we have. But getting kids to want these habits can feel like pushing a giant, wobbly boulder uphill. The good news? Healthy habits don’t have to be battles. They can actually be fun—and even lovingly embraced—when approached with a little creativity, a bit of play, and the right stories to back them up.  Why Kids Resist Healthy Habits (It’s Not What You Think) It’s easy to assume that kids refuse brushing teeth or eating vegetables because they’re being difficult. But the real reasons are more innocent:
So your secret superpower becomes this: Turn habits into stories, games, and rituals—not chores.When you frame habits as adventures, meaningful routines, or chances to shine, children lean in instead of pulling away.  Healthy Habit #1: Brushing Teeth—Turning Battles into Belly Laughs Tooth-brushing is one of the biggest parental pain points. Two minutes can feel like twenty. But when you turn it into a moment of delight, kids surprise you. Here are parent-approved strategies:
That’s where this charming book Who Needs Teeth? comes in. With humor and lighthearted illustrations, it reminds children why teeth matter—and once they understand WHY, the brushing becomes much easier. Kids laugh, parents breathe, and suddenly brushing time is a friendlier place.  Healthy Habit #2: Moving Their Bodies—The Joyful “Let’s Go!” Approach Kids are naturally wired to move, jump, dance, wiggle, run, and tumble. But screens… oh, those glowing screens… can freeze even the wiggliest child. Parents often say: “How do I motivate my child to exercise without nagging them to go outside?” The secret is simple: Movement must feel like play, not exercise.Some parent-tested tricks:
This lively book Let’s Play! perfectly reinforces this message. It shows kids that exercise is not a chore—it’s a celebration. A game. A grand adventure. When they see characters having fun while moving their bodies, something clicks inside them: “I want to do that too!” Teachers love this book. Parents adore it. And kids start saying, “Let’s play!” before the adults do.  Healthy Habit #3: Trying New Foods & Appreciating What We Have Healthy eating is about more than nutrients. It’s about curiosity, courage, and gratitude. Many children naturally fear new foods. (Green foods especially!) Parents KNOW the battle: “Just take one bite.” “Try it before you decide you don’t like it.” “It’s not going to bite you!” But children respond beautifully when the goal is not forcing—but exploring. Try these tricks:
This book is a celebration—of trying, tasting, discovering, and appreciating the good things that life (and breakfast!) has to offer. It’s a gentle nudge toward gratitude and open-mindedness, told with your classic warmth and whimsy. Kids see a character giving something new a chance-- —and suddenly they’re willing to give that green thing on their plate a chance, too.  The Secret Thread: Connection Over Correction Healthy habits stick when:
Connection always does. Kids don’t want perfection—they want participation. Brush together. Play together. Cook together. Laugh together. Read together. These are the moments that build habits and childhood memories. How Stories Make Healthy Habits Stick These books work because they do something essential: They teach the lesson without the lecture. Children learn best through:
Parents don’t have to push. Teachers don’t have to preach. The story does the heavy lifting for them.  www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.htmlwww.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.htmlBringing It All Together The morning struggle gets easier. The reminders soften. The nagging fades. Why? Because healthy habits become something your child enjoys—not something they endure. And thankfully, here are books that support parents on this journey:
Together, they support families in building routines that shape strong bodies, bright minds, and grateful hearts—without nagging, bribing, or battles. A Final Word to Parents and Teachers Healthy habits don’t happen overnight. But when we make them light, fun, and full of meaning, children flourish. They grow into kids who can brush their teeth proudly… run into the sunshine joyfully… try something new bravely… and say “thank you” sincerely. And that is the true secret to a happy, healthy childhood. Many of my children's books are available in a multicultural version and some in a Spanish. You can find them on my Children's Books page at SallyHuss.com.
 “I’m here to help!” That’s how Henry begins every day in Helpful Henry, a delightful story that celebrates one of the most beautiful qualities in a child — the desire to be helpful. Before adults teach lessons on responsibility, kindness, or teamwork, most young children already have the instinct to help. They want to stir the pancake batter, water the flowers, carry groceries, or feed the family dog. Their little hands may not always do things perfectly, but their hearts are in the right place. And that’s where real character begins.  A Child’s Natural Instinct to Help Helping comes naturally to children because it’s tied to love and belonging. When they contribute, they feel part of something bigger — the family, the classroom, or the world around them. Henry, for example, starts his day by making his bed, helping with breakfast, and washing dishes without being asked. He’s not motivated by reward; he simply wants to make life a little brighter for everyone around him. In a world that often emphasizes “me first,” Helpful Henry is a refreshing reminder that most children actually want to be of service — if only we give them the chance.  Why Helping Matters When we let children help, even in small ways, we teach them that their actions matter. It’s one of the most powerful lessons a young person can learn. They begin to understand that they can make a difference — whether it’s setting the table, comforting a friend, or standing up for someone being treated unfairly. Henry shows that helping goes beyond chores. It’s also about courage. When he encounters a school bully, he doesn’t turn away or fight back with anger. Instead, he stands up calmly, showing the bully a better way. His strength is quiet but steady — the strength of kindness and integrity. And in doing so, he helps the bully see the possibility of change. This is the kind of “helping” the world needs more of — help that comes from understanding, not superiority; from kindness, not control.  Building Emotional Intelligence Through Helping Every time a child helps, something remarkable happens inside them. They build empathy. They begin to notice how others feel. They start to read emotions and respond in ways that strengthen relationships. Teachers often notice that children who enjoy helping tend to cooperate better, handle frustration more calmly, and show greater leadership later on. When they volunteer in class, comfort a crying classmate, or take turns without being asked, they are practicing social-emotional learning in the best way — through action. Henry models this beautifully. He doesn’t need to be the star student or class leader; his leadership shines quietly through kindness. His example tells children, “You don’t have to be big to make a big difference.”  Encouraging Helping at Home Parents can nurture this helpful spirit by offering real, meaningful opportunities for children to contribute — not just “pretend help.” Here are a few ways:
 Encouraging Helping at School Teachers, too, play a vital role. A classroom where helping is valued becomes a community of caring learners. Here are a few ways educators can foster that spirit:
 The Two Natures in Every Child At the end of Helpful Henry, there’s a gentle reflection for adults — that children, like all of us, have two natures: one that is selfish, fearful, and sometimes unkind, and another that is generous, loving, and strong. Which one grows depends on what we water. When we nurture the higher nature — by inviting children to be kind, responsible, and helpful — we guide them toward joy, confidence, and resilience. Henry represents that higher nature in action. He doesn’t scold or shame; he simply shows what’s possible when kindness leads the way. Every parent and teacher who helps a child discover that feeling — the joy of helping — is shaping a happier, more harmonious world. The Gift of Being Helpful At its heart, Helpful Henry is a love letter to the spirit of helpfulness that lives in every child. It reminds us that when we encourage helpfulness, we’re not just teaching chores or manners — we’re awakening compassion. We’re giving children a sense of purpose that will guide them for life. As the book so beautifully concludes: “Children come into the world to help make the world a better place. Give them every opportunity to do so. Once they know they can be helpful, they will never be helpless!” That’s a lesson worth sharing — in every home, every classroom, and every heart. f you’d like to inspire a child with the joy of helping, discover Helpful Henry — one of Sally Huss’s many uplifting children’s books that nurture kindness, courage, and joy in young readers.
Find it on Amazon or visit www.sallyhuss.com  When it comes to raising compassionate, resilient children, stories are some of the best teachers. I believe that books can gently open conversations about emotions, choices, and values, helping children learn how to navigate their world with kindness and joy. As both educators and parents know, children often absorb lessons best through play, storytelling, and imagination. That’s where character education and social-emotional learning (SEL) meet children’s literature. Picture books with relatable characters and simple but profound messages can plant seeds that grow into lifelong habits of kindness, empathy, and happiness. Here are three my books that naturally lend themselves to lessons in character and happiness:  How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon This playful twist on the classic rhyme reminds children that perseverance and belief in oneself can make the impossible possible. It opens the door for classroom and home discussions about self-confidence, trying again, and celebrating each small success. Children begin to see that happiness often comes from courage and persistence. SEL Connection: Growth mindset, self-confidence, resilience  The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness In this story, monkeys discover the surprising power of kindness. Instead of competing or grabbing, they find that helping and sharing brings more joy to everyone. This tale invites children to reflect on their own choices: What happens when I am kind? How does it make me feel? SEL Connection: Empathy, cooperation, kindness as a daily habit  A Boat Full of Animals This lively gathering of creatures is more than just fun—it is a way of developing good habits in children. By assigning specific characteristics to each animal (the cat cleans up after herself, the bird makes sweet sounds, etc.) Children see how they can use those same qualities in their own lives. 30 fun games help fill a boat full of animals... within. SEL Connection: Acceptance, happiness as a habit, self-worth Why These Stories Matter Each of these books opens a pathway for teachers and parents to engage children in social-emotional learning in a joyful, accessible way. Rather than “lessons,” they feel like adventures—adventures that leave children smiling while planting important seeds of kindness, confidence, and worthiness. Whether read aloud in a classroom, shared before bedtime, or used as part of a character education curriculum, these stories make happiness something children can feel, understand, and share. Takeaway: Stories bridge the gap between lessons and lived experience. Books like How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon, The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness, and A Boat Full of Animals remind us that happiness is not only a feeling—it’s a practice, rooted in kindness, courage, and community.
 Every child carries a little “ark” inside them — a place where imagination meets possibility. And aboard that ark, animals of all shapes and sizes can climb aboard to teach valuable lessons. This isn’t just fantasy — it’s how children learn qualities that shape their character and carry them through life. That’s the playful idea behind my book, A Boat Full of Animals. Instead of simply telling children how to behave, it invites them to play “animal games” that help them practice good habits, positive attitudes, and life skills — all while having fun. In this blog, I’d like to share why animals are such powerful teachers, give you a peek inside these animal games, and show how this imaginative journey can help children grow strong on the inside.  Why Animals Make the Best Teachers for Kids Children are naturally drawn to animals. From the tiniest bug to the tallest giraffe, each creature sparks curiosity. But animals do more than fascinate — they also mirror qualities children can imitate and learn from.
By giving children animal role models, we bypass the need for lectures. Instead, we tap into play, imagination, and story — the natural language of childhood.  The Magic of Playing "Animal Games" In A Boat Full of Animals, each animal represents a specific quality. The child plays a little “game” with that animal to earn its place on their imaginary boat. Thirty animals in all climb aboard, and each one brings something special:
The idea is simple: by “collecting” animals on their boat, children also collect qualities within themselves. It becomes a joyful, imaginative path toward confidence and character.  Why This Matters for Parents and Teachers Childhood is when habits are formed. If we can give children playful, positive associations with good habits, they’ll carry them for a lifetime. That’s the deeper goal of A Boat Full of Animals:
 Inside the Pages of A Boat Full of Animals The book uses simple rhymes, colorful illustrations, and a lighthearted tone to invite children into the world of animal games. Each page introduces an animal, describes the quality it represents, and encourages the child to “earn” that animal by practicing the quality in daily life. It’s not just a book to read once — it’s an interactive guide children can return to, each time adding another animal to their “boat” inside. Parents often tell me that children love keeping track of their animals and proudly announcing which qualities they’ve “earned.” This makes the book a tool for:
 3 Ways to Use This Book with Children If you’d like to make the most of A Boat Full of Animals, here are three simple ways to bring it to life:
Get the Book Click here to get A Boat Full of Animals on amazon. Want to explore all of my children’s books? Browse my full catalog here. Final Thought: Building a Strong Boat Inside
Every child faces challenges -- but when they carry kindness, responsibility, joy, and confidence within them, they’re ready to sail through life. A boat full of animals is more than a storybook; it’s a playful way to help children fill their inner boat with qualities that last forever. And what could be happier than that?  Long ago I created a book called THE HAPPY BOOK with exercises to promote happiness. Ten-Speed Press Published it. Then, readers of that book requested a children's version. Here is a description of the children's version. Every child wants to feel capable, confident, and happy — and what better way to grow those qualities than through play? A BOAT FULL OF ANIMALS: 30 Games to Develop Life Skills is a delightful and interactive guide for parents, educators, and children to learn important life skills while having fun. The book offers 30 creative animal games that help children develop values, morals, and positive character traits. The concept is simple: each game represents an animal and a special quality it embodies. After each game, children “invite” the animal onto their imaginary boat, adding its trait to their personal collection. By the end of the book, kids will have a boat full of skills, traits, and happiness to carry with them throughout life. How the Games Work In the book, I encourage children to imagine a boat inside of themselves. This could be a schooner, a speedboat, a cruise ship, a tanker, or even an ark. After playing each game, the animal from that game boards their boat, bringing its unique quality along. “By the time they finish all 30 games, each child should be a lighthouse of happiness with a boat full of everything that child needs to keep sailing smoothly wherever he or she may go.”  Sample Games 1. The Giraffe Game The giraffe’s most remarkable feature is its long neck — perfect for reaching leaves on top of the acacia trees. This game encourages children to “stretch themselves” by trying new things, taking chances, and expanding their comfort zones. By the end of the day, children imagine their giraffe on board, carrying its adventurous spirit with them. Life Skills Learned:
 2. The Dolphin Game Dolphins are known for their joyful appearance and friendly nature. Children are encouraged to smile first, last, and always — spreading a positive attitude and kindness wherever they go. By playing this game, kids experience the magic of a simple smile and learn how it can influence themselves and others. Life Skills Learned:
 Here are the Titles of all the Games 1. The Giraffe Game – Stretching Your Greatness Learn to try new things, take chances, and expand personal limits. 2. The Dolphin Game – The Importance of a Smile Practice friendliness and positivity by smiling throughout the day. 3. The Bird Game – Making Sweet Sounds Discover how joy and expression can brighten the world around you. 4. The Cat Game – Cleaning Up After Yourself Learn responsibility and the importance of taking care of your surroundings.  5. The Dog Game – Being a Good Friend Practice loyalty, kindness, and supporting those around you. 6. The Hippopotamus Game – Being Generous Experience giving and sharing with joy. 7. The Monkey Game – Being Helpful Learn to lend a hand and assist others whenever possible. 8. The Bear Game – Going to Sleep Happily Develop good bedtime routines and relaxation habits. 9. The Anteater Game – Telling the Truth Build honesty and trustworthiness. 10. The Zebra Game – Appreciating Differences Celebrate diversity and the unique qualities in others.  11. The Frog Game – The Importance of Sticking to It Cultivate perseverance and determination. 12. The Beaver Game – Working Happily Learn to approach tasks with joy and dedication. 13. The Camel Game – The Importance of Love and Kindness Practice compassion and caring for others. 14. The Octopus Game – Appreciating Others Recognize and value the people around you. 15. The Pig Game – Building a Strong Body Encourage healthy habits and physical activity. 16. The Rabbit Game – Listening and Paying Attention Develop focus and mindfulness.  17. The Penguin Game – The Importance of Good Grooming Learn self-care and personal responsibility. 18. The Duckling Game – Following Directions Build listening skills and discipline. 19. The Opossum Game – Learning Patience Practice waiting, understanding, and self-control. 20. The Horse Game – Appreciating Beauty Notice and celebrate the beauty in the world. 21. The Turtle Game – Finding a Quiet Place Learn to reflect, relax, and find inner calm.  22. The Rhinoceros Game – Setting and Accomplishing Goals Develop goal-setting skills and the drive to achieve them. 23. The Squirrel Game – Saving for the Future Practice planning, organization, and foresight. 24. The Elephant Game – Knowing Your Own Greatness Build self-confidence and recognize personal strengths. 25. The Lion Game – Maintaining a Good Attitude Cultivate optimism and a positive mindset. 26. The Wolf Game – Not Being Fooled Learn discernment, critical thinking, and awareness.  27. The Moose Game – Appreciating Yourself Develop self-esteem and self-love. 28. The Ostrich Game – Learning from Mistakes Understand that mistakes are opportunities to grow. 29. The Kangaroo Game – Giving Support Practice empathy and helping others succeed. 30. The Turkey Game – Being Thankful Encourage gratitude and recognizing the blessings in life. Why This Book Matters Happy children help create happy families, neighborhoods, and even communities. By teaching life skills and positive character traits in a playful and memorable way, A BOAT FULL OF ANIMALS helps children develop essential tools for life while keeping joy at the forefront. This book is perfect for:
Click here to find this book on Amazon. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore all of my children's books.   What could be more magical than a tea party under the sea? In A Mermaid Tea Party – Kindness from the Heart children are invited into a shimmering underwater classroom where lessons go far beyond how to sip tea properly. This enchanting story, available in both its original and multicultural versions, uses playful mermaids, friendly dolphins, and a wise teacher to show that kindness is the most important ingredient at any gathering.  A Story that Sparkles with Imagination From the very first page, young readers meet Maggie the Mermaid, who eagerly swims off to school on the day of a very special event. The class will be learning about tea parties. But as Maggie and her friends discover, a tea party is more than cups and cakes—it’s an opportunity to practice kindness, respect, and appreciation. Children will delight in the whimsical details of this undersea celebration. From seaweed tablecloths and pearl platters to sandwiches, sweets, and the star of the party—the teapot—every page bursts with color and imagination. Yet what makes this book so special is that it teaches something deeper: kindness is the true treasure.  Lessons in Kindness and Care Miss Crandall, the mermaids’ teacher, guides the party with gentle wisdom. She explains that every cup of tea is not just tea—it’s filled with care, appreciation, and loving thoughts. As each mermaid carefully passes the cup along, she adds her kindness to it, creating a chain of giving. The lesson goes further when Miss Crandall reminds her students that whenever we offer something to another, it must not be empty. Whether it’s a cup, a bowl, or even a sand bucket, what we give should carry value—whether that’s food, helpfulness, or warm-heartedness. This concept becomes a powerful symbol for children: always give with fullness, never with emptiness.  Everyday Applications for Children After the party, Maggie takes what she learned back home. She helps her mother with chores, not as tasks to get through, but as opportunities to add kindness and joy. Setting the table, dusting the furniture, and preparing dinner become little celebrations of caring. This makes the story relatable and practical. Children learn that kindness doesn’t have to wait for special events. It can be practiced every day—whether sharing toys, helping parents, thanking teachers, or treating friends with thoughtfulness.  Why Parents and Teachers Love This Book Beyond its adorable illustrations and delightful storytelling, A Mermaid Tea Party – Kindness from the Heart gently models:
 A Gentle Reminder for Us All At the heart of the story lies a timeless truth: when we treat others with care and appreciation, every day becomes a celebration. The mermaids’ tea party might have ended, but their lesson continues—every act of kindness is like serving tea with love, passing it along, and making the world a more beautiful place. Whether read at bedtime, in classrooms, or during special storytimes, A Mermaid Tea Party – Kindness from the Heart is a book that leaves children smiling, inspired, and ready to add kindness to their own lives. Click here to find this book on Amazon.
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Sally Huss
I'm an author/illustrator of many children's books, over 100. I've also had 26 of my own licensed art galleries across the country and filled them with my art and happy thoughts. Those thoughts became the basis of my King Features syndicated newspaper panel -- Happy Musings. In this blog, you will find themes on health and happiness, tennis and pickleball, love and life -- all to inform you and brighten your day. Archives
February 2026
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