Sometimes worries show up in the body before children have words for them.
Benny the Bee and his Wiggly Tummy is a gentle, therapeutic picture book designed to help young children understand and manage feelings of anxiety. When Benny the bee notices his tummy begin to "wiggle", he learns--through the calm guidance of his friend Dibble--that uncomfortable feelings can be noticed, named, and supported.
Using simple, evidence-informed strategies such as deep "belly balloon" breathing, cognitive reframing through "friendly What Ifs," and gradual exposure with tiny brave steps, the story models practical tools children can use when anxiety arises.
This book supports emotional literacy, body awareness, and self-regulation, making it a valuable resource for therapists, educators, and caregivers working with children who experience worry, transition anxiety, or somatic stress responses.