Little Books Big Feelings is a read-along book series whose upcoming release “I have Butterflies in my Tummy” was born amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
South Africa (24 July 2020) – Friends, family, and parents on social media were commenting on the anxiety being experienced by their younger children during this time and writer, Lesley Scott, realised that a resource for both children and parents would be a helpful tool at this time.
Lesley Scott is mom to two young adults and lives in Stellenbosch. She has a lot keeping her busy, including her writing, photography and a Masters by thesis in Psychology. She is passionate about childhood literacy and also works with young children at vulnerable to learning difficulty. She loves to read, and can usually be found with a good book and a cup of tea. (Her other book, “The Shadow Hunters: Logan”, written as Elle Ross, is young adult fiction and can be found on Amazon). Little Books, Big Feelings began as a passion project but is becoming so much more!
South Africa, like many other countries, has a shortage of emotional and mental health support services and resources. The purpose of the book series is to allow parents, teachers, and caregivers to begin conversations with children about emotions and life experiences. “I have Butterflies in my Tummy” is ideal for children ages 5-8 and deals with anxiety and worry. Reading together is also a great way to strengthen the parent-child relationship and build trust.
Rachel Rossouw is a vibrant young character design and illustration artist who spends her time between South Africa and her home country of Namibia. She studied 2D and 3D animation at ‘The Animation School’ and graduated in 2019. Rachel has embraced the Little Books, Big Feelings project and has contributed her talents for no upfront payment.
“I have Butterflies in my Tummy” introduces Cai the Chameleon. Cai learns about identifying anxiety (in the form of worry, fear, or nervousness) and what can be done about it. The story presents the young reader with several ways to deal with this uncomfortable emotion. It encourages children to recognise and acknowledge their feelings and to deal with them positively. It also reminds children to speak to a trusted adult if they are anxious. The book is intentionally written in such a way that the character is not gendered to ensure that both boys and girls can relate to Cai.
A “Letter to Parents” is included in the book to assist parents with recognising anxiety in young children.
“There are Butterflies in my Tummy” is available in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa.
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