 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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Introduction: Why Helping Children Handle Worry Matters Worry and stress are part of life—even for children. Starting school, facing a big change at home, or dealing with something unique to them can stir up anxious feelings. While adults may see these moments as small, to children they can feel overwhelming. That’s where books can help. Stories give children both comfort and tools to handle emotions. Through characters and simple lessons, kids learn they are not alone, and that they can take steps to feel calm and strong. Below are several children’s books that focus on different situations that commonly cause worry or stress—and show children how to handle them with courage.  The Trick to Being Fearless This uplifting book introduces children to the idea that words can change how they feel. Instead of letting fear control them, kids learn that they can use a special “trick” to transform their perception of a situation. By shifting how they think and speak about fear, children suddenly feel powerful and in charge. It’s a joyful lesson that teaches kids: fear is not bigger than they are. (This book is also available in a multicultural version.)  Welcome to Kindergarten The transition from preschool to kindergarten is one of the first big steps in a child’s life—and it often comes with nervousness. In Welcome to Kindergarten, children follow along with characters who are also facing the unknowns of a new classroom, new teachers, and new friends. The story reassures children that they are not alone in their feelings, and that school is a place for learning, fun, and growth. By the end, what seemed scary becomes exciting, helping ease that big leap into kindergarten. (This book is also available in multicultural, Spanish, and bilingual versions.)  Our Father’s Smile Children with a parent leaving on deployment or for extended time away often experience deep sadness and worry. Our Father’s Smile gently addresses this fear of separation. Through story, children are reminded that even when a parent isn’t physically present, love remains constant. The book gives children comfort and emotional resilience, helping them find smiles, hope, and strength during a time of change. (This is a multicultural book.)  Max’s Big Adventure For children with food allergies, traveling or eating away from home can feel scary. What if something goes wrong? What if they can’t enjoy what everyone else does? Max’s Big Adventure follows a child with allergies as he faces these challenges with courage. The story shows children that they can still explore, have fun, and feel safe—even with special precautions. It encourages kids to be proactive and confident, rather than fearful, about their allergies.  Why Books Like These Matter What makes these books so valuable is that they don’t just name the fears—they give children a way to face them. Whether it’s a simple phrase, reassurance through love, or practical confidence, each story becomes a tool a child can carry with them.
Parent Tips: Reading to Calm Worry When reading these books, parents can help strengthen the lessons by:
 Final Thoughts: Courage Through Story Every child faces worry. But with the right tools—and the right stories—those worries don’t have to take over. Books like The Trick to Being Fearless, Welcome to Kindergarten, Our Father’s Smile, and Max’s Big Adventure offer children guidance, reassurance, and courage. They remind children that fears can be faced, challenges can be managed, and with the right perspective, life can be joyful and exciting—even in the face of worry. These books may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore this story along with many more.
 If you ask kids what their favorite food is, more often than not you’ll hear a happy shout of “Pizza!” And I have to admit—I feel the same way. Pizza is colorful, delicious, and endlessly fun. That’s why I decided to create a children’s book all about it, called I LOVE PIZZA! When I began writing this story, I wanted to capture the sheer excitement children feel when they think about pizza. The gooey cheese, the bright red tomatoes, the smell of it baking in the oven—it’s a feast for the senses. And it’s something children everywhere can relate to. Capturing Joy in a Slice The book begins with the simple declaration: “I love pizza in the morning… Pizza at lunch. Pizza for dinner, and also if there’s brunch.” From there, the narrator’s love for pizza grows bigger and sillier with every page. He imagines being crowned the “Pizza King,” delights in pizza at the pool, and even dreams about eating three pizzas in a single day! Writing those lines made me laugh, and I knew children would laugh right along with me. Humor is such a powerful way to engage young readers, and pizza gave me the perfect subject to play with.  The Deeper Layers (Like Toppings!) Of course, as with many of my books, I didn’t want the story to be just about food. I tucked a few life lessons into the fun as well. One of my favorite parts of the book is when the narrator admits that sharing pizza can be difficult—after all, who wants to give up a slice? But then he discovers something wonderful: “Yes, I find sharing my pizza is somewhat of a shame. But then, I end up with more friends than I can name.” That simple truth—sharing leads to friendship—is one I believe children can understand deeply. It’s a lesson wrapped inside laughter, which makes it both memorable and meaningful.  A Gentle Lesson on Balance Another important message in I LOVE PIZZA! is moderation. While the book begins with an over-the-top love of pizza, it ends with a thoughtful reminder: too much of a good thing isn’t always best. “Maybe a little is better than a lot. In this way I won’t have to stop! Yes, there is a measure in all things… Just one slice of pizza and my heart sings!” For me, this ending was important. I wanted children to enjoy the silliness of loving pizza while also learning about balance and healthy choices. Life is full of wonderful things—pizza included!—but joy often comes from appreciating them in just the right amount.  Celebrating Diversity with Pizza Since pizza is loved all over the world, it felt natural to create a multicultural version of I LOVE PIZZA! as well. Food is such a universal connector, and pizza especially is enjoyed in countless ways across different cultures. By offering this version, my hope was to celebrate diversity while showing children that joy, food, and friendship belong to everyone, everywhere. Why I Love Sharing This Book
When I share I LOVE PIZZA! with children, their eyes light up. They giggle at the silly rhymes, shout out their favorite toppings, and sometimes even sing along with the repetition. And when they hear the lessons about sharing and balance, they nod knowingly—as if they’ve discovered something important for themselves. That’s what I love about writing for children. Every story is an opportunity to bring joy, spark imagination, and leave behind a little wisdom. So the next time you’re enjoying a slice with your family, I hope you’ll also enjoy a few giggles from I LOVE PIZZA! Because just like pizza, a good story is meant to be shared. I Love Pizza! may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore this story along with many more. (Inspired by the children's book NO SMOKING, NO DRINKING, NO DRUGS by Sally Huss)  Helping Kids Say No to Peer Pressure Every child, at some point, will face a moment of decision. A friend may whisper, “Come on, just try it.” A group might laugh and say, “Don’t be a baby.” This is peer pressure — the invisible tug that makes kids want to fit in, even if it means doing something they know is wrong. For parents and teachers, the big question is: How can we prepare children to stand strong in those moments? One effective way is through stories that let children “practice” difficult choices in the safety of their imagination. Sally Huss’s book No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs — also available in a multicultural version — gives children just that chance. By following Billy and his guide, Mr. Consequences, young readers see what it looks like to resist peer pressure and choose wisely. Peer Pressure: Why It’s So Powerful Children naturally want to belong. Being accepted by friends feels good, while being excluded feels scary. This is why peer pressure is so powerful. Even confident, happy children can feel torn when friends encourage them to make poor choices. The challenge is that peer pressure often happens in the moment — on the playground, after school, or at a party — and kids don’t have time to stop and think. That’s why preparation is key. By talking through scenarios in advance, and by letting children “see” examples in stories, we give them the tools to respond with confidence.  Billy’s Story: A Choice at the Crossroads In No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs, young Billy walks home from school and stumbles upon a group of boys smoking and drinking. “Hey kid, take a puff,” they urge. For a split second, Billy is caught in the pressure of the group. Enter Mr. Consequences — a small mouse with big wisdom. He pulls Billy aside and shows him what’s really at stake. Through lively illustrations and powerful images — chimneys with smoke, Swiss cheese with holes, sick and unhappy people, and even glimpses of a wasted or bright future — Billy learns to see beyond the moment. By the end of the story, Billy has practiced saying no. He has learned that his health and happiness are worth protecting, and that good choices lead to a brighter future.  Practical Lessons for Saying No What makes this book so effective is that it doesn’t just say “Don’t do drugs” or “Don’t smoke.” Instead, it gives children reasons to say no — and even more importantly, it gives them words to use. Here are some strategies parents and teachers can draw from the story:
 Why the Multicultural Version Matters Children come from many different families, cultures, and communities. In the multicultural version of No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs, the message is clear: making good choices is universal. No matter who you are or where you come from, health and happiness depend on saying no to harmful habits. This inclusivity helps children see themselves in the story. When kids recognize characters who look like them, the lessons feel personal and powerful. It also opens the door for classrooms and families with diverse backgrounds to share the book together and know the message applies to everyone.  Conversations Parents and Teachers Can Have Stories are just the starting point. The real magic happens in the conversations that follow. Here are a few questions and discussion prompts to use after reading:
Giving Kids the Tools to Choose Wisely One of the most powerful lines from Mr. Consequences is: “Everyone has the right to make their own choices — good or bad. Now you understand the importance of making good choices. Your happiness depends on it.” This shifts the focus from rules and restrictions to empowerment. Children don’t feel like they’re just following what adults say — they realize they have control over their own futures. They see that their happiness is in their hands, shaped by the choices they make every day.  Why Stories Work Better Than Lectures Let’s be honest: children don’t usually respond well to lectures. “Don’t do this” and “Don’t do that” often go in one ear and out the other. Stories, on the other hand, spark the imagination. They let kids step into the shoes of characters like Billy and ask, “What would I do?” By experiencing the tug of peer pressure alongside Billy and then feeling the relief of making the right choice, children internalize the lesson in a way that sticks. It becomes their own story — not just something adults told them. A Universal Message of Health and Happiness At its heart, No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs is about more than just avoiding harmful substances. It’s about protecting health, nurturing happiness, and building a future full of possibility. It’s about giving children the confidence to stand tall, even when the crowd is pulling in another direction. Whether read at home with a parent, in a classroom with a teacher, or in a community program that celebrates diversity, the book delivers a message every child needs to hear: You have the power to say no. You have the right to choose health. Your future matters.  Final Thoughts
Peer pressure will always be part of growing up, but with preparation, guidance, and strong stories, children can face it with courage. No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs provides both the warnings and the hope, reminding children that their choices today shape their happiness tomorrow. With Mr. Consequences as their guide, kids learn that it’s not about being “cool” or “fitting in.” It’s about being true to themselves, protecting their health, and creating a future filled with joy and success. And that’s a lesson worth sharing with every child, in every culture. If you’d like to share this story with a child you love, you’ll find No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs and many more of my children’s books, on Amazon through my website. Click here to visit my Children’s Books page (Inspired by the children's book One Green Omelet, Please! by Sally Huss)  Why Kids Should Know Their Food’s Story Children today are surrounded by food, but very few actually know how it gets to their plates. Eggs come neatly packaged in cartons. Fruits and vegetables appear in bins at the grocery store. Bread comes pre-sliced in plastic bags. To many kids, it can feel as if food just magically “shows up.” That’s where One Green Omelet, Please! comes in—a delightful children’s book that not only entertains but also teaches one of life’s most important lessons: where our food comes from and why it matters.  A Girl, an Omelet, and a Big Question The story begins on a Sunday morning outing to a local restaurant with a hungry little girl who decides she wants one thing for breakfast: a green omelet. A funny request, perhaps, but kids will instantly recognize the curiosity and whimsy behind it. “Green?” asks the reader in their mind. Yes, green! The girl imagines the delicious dish, but she doesn’t stop there—she wonders what goes into it and how it is made. Where do the eggs come from? What about the spinach? What else goes inside? And so begins a playful journey of discovery, one that takes young readers from the chicken coop to the garden, and beyond.  The Egg Came First One of the first stops in our heroine's imagination is the chicken coop, where the girl discovers that eggs don’t simply appear in cartons—they are laid by hens. She can imagine the straw, hears the clucking, and watches the miracle of fresh eggs being gathered. For children who have never visited a farm, this is eye-opening. The humble egg becomes something special when kids understand the living, breathing animal that provided it.  The Garden Gives Its Greens Next, the girl learns where the “green” in her omelet comes from. String beans! They had grown with the help of the sun, their vines wound around sticks until done. Broccoli and diced zucchini, spinach, avocado, green onions, and peas color her omelet with bits of green. This part of the story is especially powerful for children because it’s so easy to replicate. Even a small pot of soil on a windowsill can show a child how seeds sprout, how plants grow, and how food is nurtured from the ground up. When kids see spinach (or herbs, or tomatoes) grow before their eyes, they begin to connect food to patience, care, and nature’s rhythms.  The Source of the Cheese She discovers a little shredded, melted cheese here and there that the chef has sprinkled with care. Where did it come from? She can almost smell the grassy fields where the cows graze and then the farmer milking a cow. The milk is then curdled and with a squeeze, it is turned into cheddar cheese.  The Magic of Cooking Once the ingredients are gathered, the story shifts to the kitchen where the chef performs his magic. Eggs are cracked, spinach is chopped, and the skillet sizzles. Children can understand that cooking is its own adventure—one that blends creativity, responsibility, and joy. By the end, the little girl doesn’t just eat a green omelet. She images that it fills her whole being. She understands it. She knows its story—from chicken, to garden, to pan. And that makes the meal taste all the more delicious.  Why This Lesson Matters One Green Omelet, Please! may be whimsical, but its message is deeply practical. When kids learn where food comes from, a few powerful things happen:
 A Recipe for More Than Breakfast
The green omelet in the story is more than a quirky dish—it’s a recipe for awareness. Just as the girl learns to connect the dots between egg, spinach, and skillet, children learn to connect the dots between effort and reward, patience and growth, gratitude and joy. When parents share stories like this, they aren’t just teaching nutrition. They’re planting seeds of responsibility, mindfulness, and appreciation. Final Thought: Omelets and Understanding One Green Omelet, Please! may seem like a playful tale about breakfast, but it’s really a gentle invitation for children to look deeper. Food doesn’t come from stores—it comes from the earth, from animals, from farmers, and from families who prepare it with care. When children understand that story, every bite feels richer. A simple omelet becomes a lesson in gratitude, curiosity, and joy. So the next time your child asks, “What’s for breakfast?” you might just smile and say, “One green omelet, please!” If you’d like to share this story with a child you love, you’ll find One Green Omelet, Please! and many more of my children’s books, on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page.  “Who Needs Teeth?” is one of those books that makes children giggle while sneaking in a very big message. Teeth are important—oh yes, they are! This charming, rhyming picture book takes little readers on a delightful journey to discover why we need them, why animals need them, and how caring for them makes life so much happier. A Funny Way to Learn a Serious Lesson The story begins with a little girl who wonders what life would be like if we didn’t have teeth. She looks around and notices the animals in her world.
 What About You? After exploring the animal world, the story turns the question toward the reader. What if you had no teeth? No apple crunch. No cinnamon bun. No cheese, no peas, no birthday cake. No bananas, no Thanksgiving turkey. And what about smiling? Without teeth, you might not want to smile at all! Children can easily see the connection: our teeth are not just for eating, they’re for showing joy, sharing happiness, and feeling confident. A Loving Reminder The book gently explains that teeth are like people—they like to be loved and cared for. They work so hard for us every day, and they ask for only a little in return: brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist. The rhyming text and cheerful illustrations make this reminder memorable. The message is never heavy-handed, but instead lighthearted and empowering. Kids finish the story feeling proud of their teeth and ready to take care of them.  Why Children Love It Children respond with laughter to the silly animal examples and delight in imagining what foods they wouldn’t want to miss out on. Parents and teachers love the story because it makes dental health—a subject that can be a struggle—fun and approachable. It’s not just a story, it’s a way to encourage healthy habits in a joyful way. Why Parents and Teachers Appreciate It This book works well for parents teaching dental hygiene at home, and it’s a natural fit for classrooms, libraries, or even pediatric dental offices. It opens the door to conversations about daily brushing, eating healthy foods, and protecting that precious smile. And just like all of Sally Huss’s children’s books, this one is filled with warmth, humor, and happiness.  A Multicultural Version, Too
“Who Needs Teeth?” is also available in a multicultural version, so all children can see themselves smiling back in its pages. Because after all, every child deserves to know that a happy face begins with a happy smile—and a happy smile is filled with happy, healthy teeth! A Happy Conclusion This adorable book leaves children with one big, joyful takeaway:
This book may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore this story along with many more.  “I’m here to help,” said Henry, as he jumped out of bed. Each and every morning, that’s what he said. With those words, Helpful Henry begins. And from that very first line, children are drawn into Henry’s world—a world where kindness, helpfulness, and courage make every day brighter. This lively, rhyming children’s book overflows with charm and joy. With cheerful, multicultural illustrations and a message every parent and teacher dreams of instilling, Helpful Henry is the perfect reminder that helping others is not only good—it feels good, too.  A Day in the Life of Helpful Henry Henry is a little boy with a big heart. From the moment he gets out of bed, he looks for ways to lend a hand.
Henry’s motto sums it up perfectly: “I like to be helpful, it makes me feel good. Today was a good day. I helped where I could.” What Children Learn from Helpful Henry This story is more than rhymes and illustrations—it’s a roadmap for kindness. Children will learn:
 Why Parents and Teachers Love This Book
A Story That Inspires At its heart, Helpful Henry is about more than chores or tasks. It’s about character. It’s about helping young readers discover their own compass—the inner voice that points them toward kindness, courage, and goodness. Every child has the potential to be a “Helpful Henry.” This story gives them a shining example, wrapped in rhyme and delight, to help them see just how much difference they can make. And like Henry, they may discover that the more you help, the happier you feel. A Book for Every Child’s Shelf
Fun. Lively. Inspiring. Helpful Henry is a book that parents, grandparents, and teachers will return to again and again. Whether read at bedtime, in the classroom, or during story time, it carries a message that grows stronger with every reading: Helping is not only good—it’s noble. It’s courageous. And it makes the world a little brighter for everyone. This book may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore this story along with many more.  Some books simply arrive like a gift—words flowing as if they had been waiting patiently for the right moment. The Princess in My Teacup is one of those books for me. Written over ten years ago, it remains one of the dearest to my heart. Why? Because it captures the magic of childhood imagination, the power of rhyming word play, and the beauty of illustrations that dance with joy. But most of all, it carries a timeless message: within every child is the spark of kindness, generosity, and gratitude—just waiting to be discovered. A Magical Story with a Gentle Lesson At its heart, The Princess in My Teacup tells the story of a little girl who, quite unexpectedly, sees a tiny princess floating in her teacup while sharing cookies with her cousin. She wonders why this princess has chosen her—after all, she considers herself just an ordinary girl. But the princess doesn’t just appear once. She pops up again at lunch, then again in a bowl of soup! Each time, the little girl begins to wonder what the princess wants from her. Finally, she asks, “What can I do for you?” The answer is simple yet profound: be more helpful. From there, the little girl begins to notice opportunities to make a difference. While washing dishes, the princess appears again and reminds her to be more grateful. Another time, she encourages the girl to make friends with someone who doesn’t have one. At each moment, the little girl’s world grows a little brighter as she learns the joy of kindness, helpfulness, and gratitude. And then comes the delightful twist—the realization that the princess in her teacup, in her soup, and in her imagination… was inside her all along. “The princess in my cup of tea… was the princess in me!”  Planting Seeds of Character in a Child’s Heart One of the greatest joys of writing children’s books is knowing that a story can plant seeds of goodness in a young heart. The Princess in My Teacup gently introduces children to the values of:
Why Children Love This Book
 A Story for All Families The Princess in My Teacup is also available in a multicultural version, making it a story every child can see themselves in. No matter a child’s background, the message remains the same: kindness and helpfulness are treasures we all carry within. A Book That Lasts a Lifetime
As parents, grandparents, or teachers, we are always looking for stories that last—stories that children will not only enjoy today but remember years from now. This is one of those books. A simple cup of tea becomes the doorway to self-discovery. A little princess becomes the voice of a child’s higher self. And with every turn of the page, children are reminded that they already have everything they need to be kind, loving, and helpful. Sometimes, all it takes is a princess in a teacup to help them see it. This book may be found on Amazon through my website.  The Big Step from Preschool to Kindergarten For many children, moving from preschool to kindergarten is one of the biggest transitions of early childhood. It’s not just about a new classroom—it’s about entering a new world filled with different routines, unfamiliar teachers, and new peers. While this milestone is exciting, it can also spark fear, anxiety, and uncertainty in children. As a children’s book author, I was asked by the Director of Head Start in Denver to create a book that would speak directly to these challenges. She explained the common fears children face when transitioning to kindergarten, and I wove them into my book, Welcome to Kindergarten. This story gently acknowledges those worries while helping children reframe them as opportunities for growth, fun, and discovery. The response has been wonderful. Educators, parents, and children have found the book to be both comforting and empowering—especially in its multicultural version, which ensures every child feels represented and included. Let’s take a closer look at some of the typical fears children experience when starting kindergarten and explore proven ways to ease this transition. Common Fears Children Have When Starting Kindergarten The Director of Head Start was right—children share many of the same worries when stepping into kindergarten. Some of the most common include:
 How Parents and Teachers Can Help Children Embrace the Transition 1. Talk Openly About Kindergarten Invite your child to share what they’re excited about and what they’re worried about. Often, children just need to put their fears into words. When parents listen without judgment, it validates a child’s feelings and helps them feel safe. 2. Read Books About Kindergarten Stories are one of the most powerful ways to help children process change. Books like Welcome to Kindergarten walk children through the transition in a relatable, gentle way. By seeing characters express and overcome the same worries they feel, children realize they are not alone. 3. Take a Kindergarten Tour If possible, visit the school before the first day. Let your child see the classroom, playground, and cafeteria. Familiarity reduces anxiety and makes the “unknown” less scary. 4. Practice Daily Routines Simple things—like practicing waking up earlier, packing a backpack, or lining up for “pretend school”—can make the first day feel easier. 5. Focus on Friendships Remind your child that everyone in their class will be new, too. Encourage them to smile, say hello, and ask someone to play. Building even one friendship can give a child confidence. 6. Celebrate the Milestone Frame kindergarten as an exciting adventure. Create positive rituals like a “first day breakfast,” taking a special photo, or packing a note in their lunchbox.  Why a Multicultural Version Matters Children thrive when they see themselves reflected in the books they read. The multicultural edition of Welcome to Kindergarten was created for exactly this reason, along with versions in Spanish and bilingual. For children from diverse backgrounds, representation provides comfort and validation. It tells them, “You belong here. Your culture and identity matter.” Educators have shared how meaningful this is in classrooms where children speak different languages or come from varied cultural traditions. Books that mirror real diversity help reduce fear and foster inclusion. The Gift of a Positive Beginning A child’s first impression of school can shape their lifelong attitude toward learning. That’s why it’s so important to address their fears with empathy, preparation, and love. When children feel supported and excited about kindergarten, they carry that confidence forward. As parents, caregivers, and teachers, we have the power to turn what could be a scary leap into a joyful step. And sometimes, the right story—like Welcome to Kindergarten—is all it takes to spark courage in a young heart. Closing Thought The transition from preschool to kindergarten doesn’t have to be filled with tears and fears. With patience, preparation, and the right resources, children can see kindergarten not as something to fear, but as a grand adventure filled with new friends, fun learning, and joyful discoveries. That’s the heart of Welcome to Kindergarten: to help children and families see that this new chapter is not just manageable—it’s something to celebrate. This book may be found in its many versions on Amazon through my website. Military families know the deep sacrifices that come with service. While deployments and separations are part of military life, they can be especially hard on children who miss the presence, love, and reassurance of a parent. Finding the right words to comfort them isn’t always easy — and that’s where stories step in. Award-winning children’s author and artist Sally Huss has created a heartfelt book series designed especially for children experiencing the challenges of military separation. Each book offers comfort, reassurance, and a way for children to hold their parents close — even when miles apart.  Our Father’s Smile This uplifting story reminds children that even though their father may be far away, his love and smile remain with them always. The message encourages children to stay happy, share smiles of their own, and feel connected no matter the distance.  My Mother’s Pearls This tender tale features a mother who wears a string of pearls, each one representing a message of love, pride, and encouragement for her daughter. It’s a beautiful metaphor children can carry in their hearts — knowing that a parent’s love shines even during times apart.  My Father’s Shirt A deeply touching story of a boy who misses his deployed father terribly. His mother helps him find comfort by wearing one of his father’s shirts, giving him a physical way to feel his father’s presence and love. A kindergarten teacher in Colorado Springs shared how powerful this book was for her class — it brought comfort to a child grieving his father’s deployment and reminded him he was not alone.  My Mother’s Wings For children whose mothers serve, this book provides reassurance that love knows no separation. A little boy’s mother, a pilot, gives him a pair of wings like hers, symbolizing that the bond between mother and child cannot be broken by distance. Why These Books Matter
Military children are resilient, but they still need reassurance and tools to process their feelings. Teachers, librarians, school counselors, and parents can use these books to:
Perfect for Classrooms, Libraries, and Military Families These beautifully written and illustrated books are ideal resources for:
These books are also offered in a MULTICULTURAL version and all may be found on Amazon through my website. |
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
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