IMAGINE is a beautifully illustrated story that features a collection of practical calming strategies for a wide range of children’s anxieties. The story follows a kind young boy as he demonstrates his thoughtfulness, and his theatrical skills, to help many of his culturally-diverse classmates cope with the stresses of their school day. He gently suggests eight different calming strategies to his friends to assist them in returning to mindfulness, so they may continue with a productive day. The flustered children practice the specific body movements or actions, while they IMAGINE the corresponding relaxing activities that bring them peace. The students learn the importance of these self-help strategies so well that they end up offering those same techniques back to the originator in his time of need, bringing the realization that a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day.
This social-emotionally themed book was written for children whose mental health is being challenged in a world that seems too difficult and stress-filled for them. Educators and parents will find that their children will easily connect with this relatable story and the simple calming strategies that can be used by children of all ages in any situation. Once the techniques are learned through the enchanting story, they can be used daily with a simple reminder of each strategies’ name. Two resources are included at the conclusion of the story to help foster the continual use of the eight calming strategies: 1) a vocabulary study will help young students, and English Language Learners, to gain full understanding of the depth of each IMAGINE scene, and 2) a two-page spread helps to recap of each calming strategy with its name, a description of the action, and a picture icon to help children visualize the technique.
