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A new children's book perfect for teachers, librarians and Mom's and Dad's who are eager to help their child with scary thoughts. Anxiety is more prevalent now more than ever. I hope this helps your little one see things differently.

WHAT ARE SOME ACTIVITIES THAT PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS CAN USE WITH THEIR CHILDREN TO LOWER ANXIETY?

Drawing and coloring are great non-verbal ways to express emotions. You will often see therapists have children draw their “feelings” on paper–pictures of family and friends can bring insight to what is really going on. They also use clay or playdoh in their sessions-- both promote focus and creativity; and sand and water play can be very calming .
Another simple way to understand a child’s feelings is through role-playing. This activity can build social-emotional skills and help increase confidence.
Other excellent activities or hobbies are listening to music, kid-friendly yoga and deep-breathing games. Stuffed animals and dolls can teach kids how to nurture kindness and develop empathy.

Obviously, reading books (like Charlie’s Big Problem) is so important. Stories like this normalize and validate how a child feels. In this book, Charlie is afraid and his mom helps him explore what is really going on. Is there anything better than knowing someone is really listening to you? There are also all kinds of mindfulness apps and, of course, natural supplements that can help decrease anxiety (make sure to always check with the pediatrician first).

Spending quality time with children takes time and patience. In my opinion, it is crucial and there is nothing better than having your little one(s) feel heard and appreciated.

For more questions and answers please refer to my BLOG.

Charlie’s Big Problem is a friendly, colorful story that helps children understand and manage anxiety. I appreciate Anne’s thoughtful use of sensory descriptions and her ability to reframe worry into something more manageable and empowering for young readers. As a registered play therapist who works with many young children, this book will definitely become a valuable part of my bibliotherapy collection.

Maria Aresco, LCSW

As an educator with 36 years of experience and a former assistant principal of a PreK–5 school, I can confidently say that Charlie’s Big Problem belongs in every classroom library. This beautifully written and illustrated story normalizes anxiety in a way that is both accessible and reassuring for young children. The illustrations are not only vibrant and engaging, but they also bring emotional depth to the story—capturing the subtle expressions and feelings of the characters with remarkable sensitivity. This book can also be powerfully linked to validating children's emotions, integrating classroom SEL tools, and supporting mental health in early education. It’s a must-have resource for fostering resilience, empathy, and open conversations around feelings in the classroom.

Louise Hanrahan - Former K-8 teacher & Assistant Principal

About the Author

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut and have always wanted to write a book. Charlie's Big Problem is the result of time and hard work. It was so worth it. I love Charlie and I hope you do too.