Calm-Down Time

by Elizabeth Verdick, Marieka Heinlen (Illustrator)

Overview

Every parent, caregiver—and toddler—knows the misery that comes with meltdowns and temper tantrums. Through rhythmic text and warm illustrations, this gentle, reassuring book offers toddlers simple tools to release strong feelings, express them, and calm themselves down. Children learn to use their calm-down place—a quiet space where they can cry, ask for a hug, sing to themselves, be rocked in a grown-up’s arms, talk about feelings, and breathe: “One, two, three . . . I’m calm as can be. I’m taking care of me.” After a break, toddlers will feel like new—and adults will, too. Books include tips for parents and caregivers.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781575423166
Publisher:	Free Spirit Publishing, Inc.
Publication date:	05/01/2010
Series:	Toddler Tools
Edition description:	Board Book
Pages:	24
Sales rank:	340
Product dimensions:	6.90(w) x 6.90(h) x 0.60(d)
Age Range:	1 - 3 Years

About the Author

Elizabeth Verdick is the author of more than 30 highly acclaimed books for children and teenagers, including books in the Toddler Tools board book series, the Best Behavior series for young children, and the Laugh & Learn™ series for preteens. Her most recent titles include Manners Time and Siblings (with James J. Crist, Ph.D.).

Editorial Reviews

“Highly useful titles for preschool collections.”—School Library Journal

2011 Preferred Choice Award Winner — Creative Child Magazine

From the Publisher

It might be wise for a parent or caregiver to read the last spread containing calm-down tips before sharing the book with a child. There is plenty of good advice for helping children cope with their emotions. The book is honest in stating that some times we feel sad, mad or throw tantrums. Then it is time to try some of the suggested strategies. Acknowledge the emotion, suggest taking a deep breath, counting, finding a quiet place, hugging oneself or singing a little song while rocking back and forth are examples. Some kids want to talk others need a hug. It is important to find out what works. The illustrations make each of these techniques as well as the emotions quite clear and it is apparent that for many kids once the emotional situation has been dispelled, they are ready to rejoin activities and life is "normal" again. Part of the "Toddler Tools" series. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot

Children's Literature - Marilyn Courtot

PreS—These brightly colored board books are meant to help caregivers and small children manage the daily routines as well as the ups and downs of toddler life. One or two simple sentences explain each idea in a toddler-friendly manner, often describing why these actions can help them. For example, Bedtime explains that children take a bath before bed because "warm water helps me relax" and get ready for sleep. The first-person narrative is an ideal technique for communicating with small children who are developing a sense of themselves. The illustrations also are perfectly attuned to the smallest readers. Bold, black outlines and bright colors capture youngsters' attention. Heinlen also uses patterned fabrics to give the pictures rich textures that will engage children. The illustrations depict children and families from a variety of ethnic and racial backgrounds. The last two pages of each book provide helpful tips for caregivers. For example, Calm-Down Time advises adults to stay calm themselves while helping a frustrated toddler. Adults are also encouraged to seek help from pediatricians, parenting books, and child-development Web sites. Highly useful titles for preschool collections, especially where there is a demand for parenting materials.—Mary Landrum, Lexington Public Library, KY

School Library Journal