Big Feelings, Calm Choices: When Worry Shows Up

By Sarah Sargent

Ellie is eight years old when her body starts doing something confusing. Her stomach tightens in math class. Her heart races. Her thoughts get loud. She worries she might be sick. But every time the nurse checks her, everything looks normal.

As the feelings keep coming back, Ellie starts to wonder if something is wrong with her- or worse, if people think she is pretending. With the help of her school counselor and family, Ellie learns that what she is feeling is worry. She discovers that worry is something everyone experiences, and that our bodies have an alarm system designed to protect us.

Through simple, child-friendly explanations and practical coping strategies, Ellie learns how to notice the first signs in her body and respond with tools like hot cocoa breathing, grounding techniques, and challenging worried thoughts. She also learns when it is normal to feel nervous and push through, and when it is important to ask for support.

This book helps children understand the difference between everyday worry and anxiety that needs extra help. It normalizes big feelings, builds body awareness, and encourages brave conversations with trusted adults.

Includes free coping skill resources in the back for children, parents, teachers, and counselors.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GP19KSHY
• ISBN13: 9798248625703
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 42 Pages
• Weight: 0.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 8.5" x 11.0"