Children are forever asking us to look at rocks, bugs, clouds, and other things adults have learned to hurry past. We can’t stop every time. But when we can, “Show me” may be all the connection the moment needs.

“Calm down” is usually what we say when we are also trying very hard to calm down. A note about what overwhelmed kids need instead, and what parents can say when their own nervous systems are one cracker away from disaster.

Kids notice more than we think.

They notice when adults lower their voices in the kitchen. They notice when someone says, “I’m fine,” in a tone that suggests fine has packed a bag and left the building…

Funny picture books don’t avoid big feelings. Sometimes, they make those feelings safe enough to approach.

Because the truth is, there are few things more suspicious to a child than an adult who is clearly trying to teach them something.