Tia Needs a Hug

"Things like hugging and taking deep breaths can remind you that you are loved and help you regain control."

When Tia the butterfly wakes up from a nightmare, shaken and upset, she can't help but cry. She feels lonely. But when her good friend Tree checks in on her, she musters a genuine smile, as she learns that it's okay to be sad-and she has a whole labyrinth of friends there to support her through her sadness. Even more importantly, she discovers a new mental health tool-the power of hugging herself. After wrapping her arms around herself, breathing deeply, and noticing how she's feeling, Tia feels back in control of her emotions and ready to manage them productively.

Tia Needs a Hug masterfully illustrates the importance of feeling your emotions, big and small, without letting them overtake you. In this mindfulness-based social emotional learning book, young readers will discover how to take a pause, intentionally tap into their feelings, and regain control without invalidating their emotions or stomping them down. In the end, children and even adults can benefit from learning how to calm down and care for themselves when their emotions feel big and out of control.