Dog in Charge

Reach for this book when your child is transitioning into a leadership role, whether as a new big sibling, a classroom helper, or simply learning to manage their own impulses while others are being rowdy. It perfectly captures the overwhelming feeling of being told you are in charge, only to realize that managing others is much harder than following rules yourself. Through the lens of a well-behaved dog trying to corral five chaotic cats, the story validates the frustration of losing control while celebrating the resilience needed to try again. Dog is a master of commands like Sit and Stay, but when his humans leave him in charge of the house, the cats have other plans. The story uses humor and slapstick energy to explore themes of responsibility, patience, and the reality of burnout (represented by Dog's need for a nap). It is an ideal pick for children aged 3 to 7 who are beginning to navigate social hierarchies and the weight of expectations. Parents will appreciate how it models that even when things go off the rails, you can regroup and find a way to succeed.